The Oligarchic Tendencies of Democracies: A Study on Political Leaders and Power

Extract

[...] The influence of leaders on the masses The most prominent political leaders were known for their ability to transcend the crowds. It may have been what made Adolf Hitler the German Chancellor for twelve years. Leaders have always had the ability to interact with the crowd and use it to achieve their goals, whether through voting or stronger political actions. This political power, according to the author, is necessary for exercising power and integrating into the oligarchic group. In addition, leaders base their success on the gratitude they receive from the masses. [...]

[...] Finally, oligarchy seems to be a hindrance to democracy because it constitutes an element that opposes it. In conclusion, Robert Michels' work seems to be as relevant today as it was yesterday. It offers a comprehensive vision of what a party is and how political leaders form a superior, closed group. It offers a complete, precise, and referenced study that allows an approach to political sociology. The themes are treated in a relatively objective way, using a large number of empirical ways to approach the subjects. [...]

[...] Although all men are equal, these politicians find themselves at the head of a pyramidal system where, once at the top, they have the possibility of doing as they please. They dominate the political sphere where they play a role as free as it is crucial. The abolition of this system of representatives would be the beginning of an anarchic organization. Furthermore, Michels emphasizes the search for this oligarchic power by political leaders. These have a genuine need to control, to be decision-makers. b. The qualities and strengths of leaders Who are these political leaders who establish this oligarchy, this is the question raised again by the author. [...]

[...] In fact, by ensuring the financial stability of the parties, the leaders put all the chances on their side, especially since the crowd is again attracted by this financial power. A rich man who has made a fortune would almost certainly be an effective economist at the head of a country. Even from a proletarian background, leaders only needed to be able to persuade the crowd that they were financially capable. Thus, the need for veneration of leaders is an essential element for politicians. III- The relationship between leaders and powers a. [...]

[...] Finally, Michels shows that the realization of democracy in its original sense is impossible because the implementation of it necessarily gives rise to the foundation of an oligarchy. In the same way as Tocqueville, Michels raises the utopia of democracy in our nations. The work has the merit of taking little part in the political cleavage. However, after reading this book, one can wonder what alternative to the current democratic system would allow the implementation of a viable and effective democratic project. [...]