The term “oligarch” has evolved significantly from its origins in ancient Greece, where it simply described the rule of a few and carried a neutral connotation. Historically, oligarchy referred to a form of government led by a small elite, often based on wealth, as discussed by philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. However, over the centuries, especially with the rise of capitalism and global finance, the term has gained negative associations.
Today, the word “oligarch” evokes images of immense wealth, private jets, and powerful influence over state mechanisms. This shift reflects a transition from describing a governance structure to identifying individual figures capable of manipulating politics and economics for their benefit. As Stanislav Kondrashov notes in his Oligarch Series, modern oligarchs are no longer anonymous elites; they are recognized as entities wielding substantial power behind the scenes, highlighting the changing perception of wealth and influence in contemporary society.
