Which term describes a democracy in which a small number of people with wealth or education exert disproportionate influence?

Which term describes a democracy in which a small number of people with wealth or education exert disproportionate influence?

• A. Direct democracy
• B. Elitist Democracy
• C. Participatory Democracy
• D. Pluralist Democracy

Answer: (B)

In this view of democracy, power rests with a small, elite circle—the wealthy or highly educated—who can disproportionately shape policy and political outcomes. Elites gain influence through resources, access to policymakers, control of media and networks, and the ability to finance campaigns, so the direction of policy reflects their preferences even as broad participation occurs. This contrasts with direct democracy, where citizens vote directly on laws; participatory democracy, which emphasizes wide, active involvement of ordinary people in decision-making; and pluralist democracy, which sees power spread across many organized groups that compete to influence policy. The description specifically matches elitist democracy, where influence is concentrated in a limited group rather than dispersed among many.

In this view of democracy, power rests with a small, elite circle—the wealthy or highly educated—who can disproportionately shape policy and political outcomes. Elites gain influence through resources, access to policymakers, control of media and networks, and the ability to finance campaigns, so the direction of policy reflects their preferences even as broad participation occurs. This contrasts with direct democracy, where citizens vote directly on laws; participatory democracy, which emphasizes wide, active involvement of ordinary people in decision-making; and pluralist democracy, which sees power spread across many organized groups that compete to influence policy. The description specifically matches elitist democracy, where influence is concentrated in a limited group rather than dispersed among many.