WEEK 7 – POWER, ELITE THEORY AND PLURALISM

What are the three dimensions of power according to Dahl

Bachrach & Baratz, and Lukes?,Decision-making power, agenda-setting power, and ideological/preference-shaping power.

What is decision-making power?

The ability to influence decisions on issues already on the political agenda.

What is agenda-setting power?

The ability to determine which issues are discussed and which are excluded from political debate.

What is ideological power?

The ability to shape people's beliefs, preferences, and understanding of their interests.

What is elite theory?

The theory that a small minority of elites hold most political power in society.

Who are considered elites according to elite theory?

People who control economic resources, hold top political positions, or possess high social status.

How does Schumpeter view democracy?

As competition between political elites for votes.

What is Robert Michels' "Iron Law of Oligarchy"?

The idea that all large organisations eventually become dominated by a small elite.

What is pluralist theory?

The theory that power is dispersed among many competing groups in society.

How does pluralism view government?

As a neutral mediator between competing interests.

What did Robert Dahl conclude in his New Haven study?

That power is spread across different groups rather than concentrated in one elite.

What is a criticism of pluralism?

It ignores inequalities in resources and influence between groups.

What did Schattschneider mean by "the heavenly chorus sings with a strong upper-class accent"?

Wealthy groups have greater influence than ordinary citizens.

What is neo-pluralism?

A version of pluralism recognising that some groups have significantly more influence than others.

What did Gilens and Page conclude about democracy in the United States?

Economic elites and powerful interest groups have greater influence on policy than average citizens.

How can lobbying influence democracy?

By giving organised interests direct access to policymakers and influencing policy outcomes.