Political Elites and Democracy: A Critical Overview

Authors : Gökhan Alper Ataşer

Pages : 664-673

Doi:10.33709/ictimaiyat.1602695

View : 106 | Download : 738

Publication Date : 2025-11-30

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :This article critically examines elitist and democratic elitist theories through a review of classical and modern theorists. It explores the role of elites in modern society within the context of democratic governance and democratization. Classical theorists are criticized for reflecting the political dynamics of their time, which are often used to justify authoritarianism. Post–World War II scholarship, however, began linking pluralism with democracy, suggesting that elite rule could be compatible with democratic systems-particularly in advanced capitalist societies. Still, critics like Mills argue that formal democracy may conceal deep inequalities, reinforcing elite dominance. While most theorists agree on the inevitability of elite rule in modern societies, they differ on its compatibility with democracy, indicating that other regime and system features should also be taken into account. Those with a rigid view of democracy see elite rule as inherently undemocratic. Democratic elitists, by contrast, emphasize the importance of broader factors-such as class, economic development, political institutions, civil society, and media-in determining whether elite rule supports or undermines democracy.
Keywords : Demokrasi, Seçkinler Kuramı, Seçkincilik, Demokratik Seçkincilik, Siyasal Seçkinler.

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