POWER ELITES Meaning and
Definition
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Power elites refer to a small, select group of individuals in a society who wield a disproportionate amount of power, influence, and decision-making authority. These individuals are typically members of the economic, political, and social elite, and they often occupy top positions in corporations, government, and other influential organizations. Power elites are characterized by their ability to shape and control the direction and policies of a society, usually to serve their own interests or the interests of their respective class or group.
Power elites are distinguished by their access to and control over critical resources, such as wealth, political connections, and information. They possess the capability to shape public opinion, set agendas, and make key decisions that have a significant impact on the functioning and development of society. This concentration of power in the hands of a few can result in a significant imbalance of power and can undermine democratic processes and social equality.
The concept of power elites has been extensively explored in various sociological and political theories, notably by C. Wright Mills in his book "The Power Elite." This theory argues that power is embedded in a network of relationships among social elites who occupy influential positions, and that these elites share similar interests and tend to collaborate in promoting and maintaining their power and privilege. The power elites may also establish informal networks and closed circles, reinforcing their dominance and perpetuating social inequalities.
Common Misspellings for POWER ELITES
- oower elites
- lower elites
- -ower elites
- 0ower elites
- piwer elites
- pkwer elites
- plwer elites
- ppwer elites
- p0wer elites
- p9wer elites
- poqer elites
- poaer elites
- poser elites
- poeer elites
- po3er elites
- po2er elites
- powwr elites
- powsr elites
- powdr elites
- powrr elites
Etymology of POWER ELITES
The term "power elites" emerged in the field of sociology and political science during the mid-20th century. It was popularized by the sociologist C. Wright Mills in his influential 1956 book "The Power Elite".
The word "power" originates from the Old French term "povoir", which means "to be able". It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "potere", which carries a similar meaning of "being able" or "having control".
The term "elite" comes from the Latin "eligere", meaning "to select" or "to choose". This suggests a special group of individuals who possess superior qualities, skills, or status.
In the context of "power elites", these two words are combined to describe a select group of people who possess significant political, economic, and social power within a society.
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