Plutocratic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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plutocratic
[ploo-tuh-krat-ik ]
Definition
political influence
Plutocratic refers to a system of governance or influence where wealthy individuals hold power and influence over political decisions and policies. In a plutocratic society, the affluent class wields significant control, often to the detriment of the wider populace. This term highlights the disparities that arise when financial status determines access to political power and resources. Plutocracy can lead to governance that primarily serves the interests of the wealthy, thereby neglecting the needs of lower-income citizens.
Synonyms
elite, financially powerful, wealthy.
Examples of usage
- The city has a plutocratic government that favors the interests of its wealthy donors.
- In a plutocratic society, legislation may often reflect the priorities of the affluent.
- Many critics argue that the current political system is becoming increasingly plutocratic.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Throughout history, various governments like ancient Rome and medieval Europe showcased elements of plutocratic rule, often favoring the wealthy aristocracy.
- The Gilded Age in the United States (late 19th century) is frequently cited as a plutocratic era when a small number of individuals amassed vast fortunes while others remained impoverished.
Modern Relevance
- Today, some critics argue that many democracies increasingly feel plutocratic due to the influence of money in political campaigns.
- Wealth concentration in the hands of a few is often seen as a threat to equality and democracy in modern societies.
Political Theory
- Plutocratic systems are often contrasted with democratic frameworks, where political power is ideally distributed more evenly among the population.
- Philosophers like Aristotle considered plutocracy as a corrupt form of oligarchy, where the focus is on wealth rather than the common good.
Cultural Representation
- Plutocratic themes appear frequently in literature and film, often portraying the struggles of ordinary people against wealthy elites.
- Notable works, like 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald, address the moral ambiguities of wealth and the lifestyles of the rich during the early 20th century.
Origin of 'plutocratic'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek words 'ploutos,' meaning wealth, and 'kratos,' meaning power or rule.
- Plutocracy entered English vocabulary in the 19th century, highlighting the growing influence of wealth in politics during that time.
The word 'plutocratic' is derived from the root 'pluto-', which comes from the Greek word 'ploutos' meaning 'wealth'. The suffix '-cratic' comes from the Greek 'kratos', meaning 'power' or 'rule'. Together, they form a term that emphasizes the influence of wealth on political power. The concept of plutocracy has been discussed since ancient times, but it gained more prominence during the industrial and economic revolutions when wealth became more concentrated in the hands of a few. Historically, societies with strong elements of plutocracy have faced criticism and calls for reform, especially when the interests of the wealthy contrast sharply with those of the broader population. The modern discourse surrounding plutocracy often intersects with discussions about democracy, economic inequality, and social justice.