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elite

This refers to a minority group which has power or influence over others and is recognized as bring in some ways superior. The sociology of elite is traditionally dealt with the ruling elites. The classical theory of elite is found in the works of Pareto and Mosca.In these theories the elites are shown as possessing superior psychic qualities. A more recent theory is given by C.W Mills who does not regard elites as those who dominate the key institutions of society. The concept of ruling elites is a modification of the concept of ruling class. Theorists regard that power is concentrated in the hands of a small minority rather than being shared by members of the ownership class. The assumption common to all elite theories is that there will always be a divide between the rulers and ruled even in nominally democratic societies and institutions although the elites may vary in extent to which they are integrated into a socially cohesive or solitary group.

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