Elitist Democracy

Definition

Elitist democracy is a political theory that suggests a small group of elites, rather than the general population, should make important decisions for society. This concept implies that power and influence are concentrated among a select few who are perceived to be more educated, wealthy, or socially connected, thereby diminishing the role of the average citizen in governance. The focus is on the belief that these elites have the necessary expertise and knowledge to make informed choices for the betterment of society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elitist democracy posits that the elite class is better equipped to govern due to their resources, education, and experience.
2. This theory contrasts with more inclusive democratic models that prioritize equal participation from all citizens.
3. In an elitist democracy, the average citizen may feel disenfranchised or powerless as key decisions are made by a small group.
4. Critics argue that elitist democracy can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency in government, as the elites may not represent the interests of the broader population.
5. Elitist democracy often manifests in policy-making processes where lobbyists and special interest groups have significant sway over elected officials.

Review Questions

• How does elitist democracy contrast with participatory democracy in terms of citizen engagement?
  • Elitist democracy focuses on decision-making by a small group of elites, which limits broader citizen engagement in governance. In contrast, participatory democracy emphasizes active involvement from all citizens, encouraging them to take part in political processes and decision-making. This fundamental difference highlights how elitist democracy can lead to disconnection between the ruling class and the general populace, while participatory democracy seeks to empower individuals by giving them a voice in their government.
• Discuss the potential consequences of an elitist democratic system on public policy and representation.
  • An elitist democratic system may result in public policies that primarily reflect the interests of the elite class rather than those of the general populace. This can create a disconnect between the government's actions and the needs of everyday citizens. Furthermore, if decision-making is largely confined to a select few, issues such as inequality and social injustice may be overlooked. The representation in this scenario may not be truly reflective of societal diversity, leading to policies that favor certain groups while marginalizing others.
• Evaluate how elitist democracy influences voter apathy and engagement within society.
  • Elitist democracy can significantly contribute to voter apathy as citizens may feel their voices are irrelevant when key decisions are made by an elite few. This perception can lead to lower voter turnout and disengagement from political processes. Additionally, when individuals believe that their participation will not change outcomes, they are less likely to invest time or energy into voting or activism. This cycle can perpetuate a disconnect between the governing class and the electorate, ultimately undermining the foundational principles of democratic governance.

Related terms

Pluralism:

A political system where multiple groups compete for power and influence, emphasizing diversity and the participation of various interests in governance.

Participatory Democracy:

A model of democracy that encourages broad participation from citizens in decision-making processes, promoting direct engagement in political activities.

Political Elites: Individuals or groups that hold significant power and influence in political affairs, often characterized by their wealth, education, or social status.