In “Elites and Democracy,” Hugo Drochon examines the rise of populist movements against elites in the past decade, noting a paradox where populist leaders often belong to the elite themselves. He argues that modern politics is the replacement of one elite by another, framing the relationship between elites and democracy through the lens of twentieth-century political thought.
Drochon references Joseph Schumpeter, who proposed that electoral politics is merely competition for leadership, asserting that the many do not govern the few; rather, the few—now elected—still govern. This view aligns with the thoughts of elite theorists like Gaetano Mosca, Vilfredo Pareto, and Robert Michels, who explored democratic elites in the context of mass voting and party politics. They introduced vital concepts like the “ruling class” and the “iron law of oligarchy,” which suggest that organized elites control political power.
Drochon presents a “dynamic theory of democracy,” viewing democracy not as direct sovereignty of the people but as a challenge to existing elite rule, facilitated by social movements. He notes that while traditional political parties have declined, leader-led movements have emerged, indicating that organization remains key to elite dominance, as organized minorities often overshadow unorganized majorities.
The book highlights Mosca’s idea of “judicial defense” to prevent tyranny, emphasizing the role of law and separation of powers in safeguarding democracy. Drochon further relates the concerns of post-war theorists like Robert Dahl and C. Wright Mills to the ideas of the Italian elite theorists, emphasizing the necessity of competition within the democratic framework for individual freedom.
In conclusion, Drochon warns that the decline of political parties, traditionally linked to liberalism, allows populist forces to thrive. He advocates for stronger political parties to maintain a balanced political landscape, emphasizing that a divided elite can foster dialogue and prevent authoritarianism.
