Elitism

Definition

Elitism is the belief or practice that a society or organization should be led by a select group of individuals considered to be the most qualified or capable. This concept suggests that political power and influence should rest in the hands of an elite, often leading to a system where the general populace has limited participation in governance. Elitism can manifest in various political systems, reflecting how power dynamics shape the functioning of government and the role of citizens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elitism can lead to a disconnect between the ruling elite and the general public, potentially fostering discontent among citizens who feel excluded from decision-making processes.
2. In parliamentary systems, elitism may be reflected in party leadership structures that prioritize established members over grassroots participation, influencing policy-making.
3. Presidential systems can also exhibit elitism through the concentration of power in the executive branch, often sidelining legislative input from less powerful representatives.
4. Interest groups and lobbying often reinforce elitist structures by providing resources and access to policymakers that are not equally available to all citizens, further entrenching power dynamics.
5. Critics argue that elitism undermines democratic principles by limiting representation and promoting policies that favor the interests of a few over the needs of the majority.

Review Questions

• How does elitism influence political participation in different political systems?
  • Elitism significantly influences political participation by creating barriers for average citizens to engage in governance. In parliamentary systems, party leadership may prioritize the views of established elites over grassroots opinions, leading to policies that do not reflect public sentiment. In presidential systems, when power becomes concentrated in the executive branch, it can result in limited avenues for citizen engagement, reinforcing elitist structures where only a select few have substantial influence over decisions.
• Discuss the role of interest groups in promoting elitism within governmental processes.
  • Interest groups play a pivotal role in promoting elitism by leveraging their resources to gain access to policymakers and influence legislation. These groups often represent the interests of wealthy individuals or corporations, allowing them to exert disproportionate control over political outcomes. This dynamic can lead to a system where decisions favor elite interests while marginalizing the voices of average citizens, ultimately entrenching elitist governance and reducing overall democratic participation.
• Evaluate how elitism can shape policy outcomes differently in parliamentary versus presidential systems.
  • Elitism shapes policy outcomes in parliamentary systems by allowing party leaders and their inner circles to dictate legislative priorities without substantial input from broader constituencies. This can result in policies that reflect elite interests rather than public needs. In contrast, presidential systems may experience elitism through executive orders or unilateral actions taken by the president, sidelining legislative debate and limiting collaboration with other branches. In both cases, elitism can hinder responsiveness to public demands and lead to increased public skepticism towards government.

Related terms

Oligarchy:

A form of power structure where a small number of people, often from the same social, economic, or political class, hold significant power over a state or organization.

Meritocracy: A system in which advancement is based on individual ability or achievement, often resulting in the rise of an elite class based on merit rather than privilege.

Plutocracy: A society or system ruled or controlled by people of great wealth, highlighting the influence of economic power in shaping governance.