Pronunciation: [ɹˈuːlɪŋ klˈasɪz] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "ruling classes" is /ˈruːlɪŋ ˈklɑːsɪz/. The first part of the word "ruling" is pronounced with a long 'oo' sound, and the 'g' is not pronounced. The second part, "classes," is pronounced with a short 'a' sound followed by a 's' sound at the end. The word refers to the group of people who hold power and influence in a society, usually due to their wealth, social status, or political connections.
Ruling classes, also known as the ruling elite or ruling elites, refer to the social groups or individuals who hold significant political, economic, and social power within a given society or nation. This term encompasses those who have authority, control, and influence over the decision-making process that affects the lives of the majority of the population. The ruling classes often determine laws, policies, and regulations, as well as shape the cultural, social, and economic structures of a society.
Membership in the ruling classes is typically based on specific criteria, such as wealth, social status, family lineage, or political power. This privileged position grants them access to resources, opportunities, and privileges that are not easily attainable by the general population. They may control the means of production, hold positions of political leadership, or dominate influential institutions like corporations, banks, or media outlets.
The ruling classes often safeguard and perpetuate their power through various mechanisms such as inheritance, nepotism, and the exercise of authority. Their decisions and actions have the potential to shape the distribution of wealth, resources, and opportunities within a society, leading to potential social, economic, and political inequalities. However, the dynamics and composition of ruling classes can evolve over time, influenced by factors like revolutions, social movements, societal changes, and shifts in political landscapes.
Understanding the ruling classes within a society is crucial for comprehending power structures, social stratification, and the dynamics of governance. It allows for the examination of societal imbalances, potential social injustices, and the impact of decision-making on different segments of the population.
The term "ruling classes" is composed of two words: "ruling" and "classes".
1. Ruling: The word "ruling" is the present participle form of the verb "rule" which comes from the Old English word "rēol", meaning "to conduct, guide, govern". It has its roots in the Old High German word "rihhan" and the Gothic word "reihs", both of which also mean "to rule". The root of these words can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*rikja-" or "*rikô", meaning "king, ruler".
2. Classes: The word "classes" comes from the Latin word "classis", which originally referred to a group of people sorted into divisions based on social or economic standing.
