Iron Law of Oligarchy

Definition

The Iron Law of Oligarchy is a principle in sociology that suggests organizational leadership will inevitably be dominated by a small, elite group, regardless of the organization's democratic or egalitarian intentions. It argues that as organizations grow, they become more complex, necessitating specialized knowledge and skills that lead to the formation of a ruling class.

Related terms

Bureaucracy:

A system of administration characterized by strict policies, procedures, and hierarchy intended to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.

Power Elite:

A small group of people who hold disproportionate power and resources in society, often making key decisions affecting social structures.

Democracy:

A form of government in which power is vested in the hands of the people, either directly or through elected representatives