Sociology / Unit 9 Soc 1497 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Oligarchy
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The idea
An oligarchy is a government in which power is held by a small elite group, typically through wealth or military strength rather than birth.
In practice
A society's political decisions cluster around a narrow circle of wealthy donors even while its constitution describes free elections.
Where people slip
Few societies openly call themselves oligarchies; the label is contested where it might apply, which the next entry addresses.
Your place on the trail
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