Oligarchy

Definition

An oligarchy is a form of government where power effectively rests with a small number of people. These individuals could be distinguished by royalty, wealth, family ties, education, corporate, religious, or military control.

Related terms

Plutocracy:

A government in which the wealthy class rules.

Aristocracy:

A form of government that places power in the hands of a small, privileged ruling class, often hereditary nobility.

Democracy:

A system of government by the whole population or all eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives