The spelling of the phrase "political establishment" can be a bit tricky. The word "political" is pronounced /pəˈlɪtɪkəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word "establishment" is pronounced /ɪˈstæblɪʃmənt/, with the stress on the second syllable as well. When put together, the correct spelling is "political establishment" with the stress on the second syllable of both words. This phrase refers to the group of people who hold political power and influence within a society.
Political establishment refers to the established power structure within a political system or society, typically characterized by a group of influential individuals, organizations, or institutions that have long-standing control and influence over the political process and decision-making. It encompasses the individuals who hold key positions in government, such as elected officials, high-ranking bureaucrats, party leaders, and influential lobbyists.
The political establishment often includes well-established political parties and their affiliated interest groups, which have the resources, connections, and experience necessary to shape public policy and drive the political agenda. It is important to note that the composition and dynamics of a political establishment can vary across countries and within different political systems.
The concept of the political establishment carries both positive and negative connotations. Proponents argue that it provides stability by leveraging experience and expertise to effectively manage governance and maintain political order. They emphasize the importance of continuity and institutional knowledge in decision-making processes. Conversely, critics argue that the political establishment can lead to a lack of meaningful change and perpetuate the status quo, potentially marginalizing new voices or perspectives. Such critics often view the establishment as resistant to change and argue for greater representation and diversity in political power structures.
In summary, the political establishment represents the established and powerful actors within a political system who exert influence over decision-making and shape the political landscape. Its influence can be seen in policy-making, legislative processes, and the allocation of resources, while opinions on its impact vary, often depending on one's stance towards the existing power structures.
The word "political" comes from the Latin word "politicus", derived from the Greek word "politikos", meaning "of or pertaining to citizens or the state". It is ultimately derived from the Greek word "polis", meaning "city" or "city-state". The term "establishment" comes from the Old French word "establir", meaning "to set up or establish", which is further derived from the Latin word "stabilire", also meaning "to make stable".
When these two words are combined, the term "political establishment" refers to a group of influential individuals, organizations, or institutions that have established power and control in the political realm. This term is commonly used to refer to the existing structure and elites in a political system.