Lecture Notes: Power Dynamics and Elite Theory

Introduction to Power Dynamics

• Power Over: Hierarchical dynamic where power is held by some over others
  • Unequal distribution of power
  • Responding to this unequal distribution

Elite Theory of Politics

• Iron Law of Oligarchy: Concept by Michels
  • Small group of insiders always runs things in large groups
• Elites occupy key positions in institutions (military, religion, economy, politics, culture)

Insider vs. Outsider Dynamics

• Larry Summers' Insider/Outsider Speech
  • Insiders have access but don’t criticize each other
  • Gross because it reproduces dominance and excludes free expression of ideas

Examples of Elite Dynamics

• Jon Stewart vs. Larry Summers discussion on Insider benefits
  • Market forces and wage inflation
  • Government's role in supporting insiders or outsiders

Machiavellian vs. Liberal Democratic Principles

• Machiavellian Principle: Benefits elite rulers
• Liberal Democratic Principle: Benefits the collective voters

Power Over: Elite Theory and Marxist Theory

• Marxist Analysis: Focuses on class conflict and exploitation
  • Unequal resource distribution weaponized against each other
  • Class struggle explains historical oppression and resistance

Class Analysis in Modern Society

• Intersection of class with race, gender, and other forms of oppression
• Questioning the textbook's framing of class conflict as more significant than other conflicts
• Importance of addressing all forms of oppression together

Social Reproduction and Class

• Feminist political economy: Social reproduction and remuneration
  • Universal Child Care as an example of addressing social reproduction

Colonialism, Racism, and Class

• Colonialism: Dispossession and cultural elimination for elite benefit
• Racism: Structures built on historical oppression, e.g., NCAA and lack of remuneration

Ableism and Normalcy

• Normalcy of Bodies: Access and privilege related to ability, phenotype, etc.
  • State policies impacting economy and class interests

Modern Structural Reproduction of Old Problems

• New technologies and systems reproducing old inequalities
  • Invisible women: Lack of gender consideration in safety and health testing

Class Struggle in Everyday Context

• Memes and societal observations highlighting class and power imbalances
  • Corporate power vs. individual impact on climate change
  • Differential representation in political systems

Conclusion

• Power and Blame: How societal problems are framed in terms of power dynamics
• Next section to address specific mechanisms of these power structures