Which term describes a democratic system where wealthier or better-educated groups have disproportionate influence over government policy?

Which term describes a democratic system where wealthier or better-educated groups have disproportionate influence over government policy?

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

Answer: (B)

The idea tested is that power in a democracy can be concentrated in a wealthy or highly educated minority. In this setup, formal political equality exists, but elites use money, status, and networks to disproportionately shape policy and political outcomes. This differs from direct democracy, where citizens vote on laws themselves; from pluralist democracy, where many interest groups compete for influence and no single group dominates; and from participatory democracy, which emphasizes broad and active citizen involvement. Elitist democracy best captures how an influential minority can steer government policy even within a democratic framework.

The idea tested is that power in a democracy can be concentrated in a wealthy or highly educated minority. In this setup, formal political equality exists, but elites use money, status, and networks to disproportionately shape policy and political outcomes. This differs from direct democracy, where citizens vote on laws themselves; from pluralist democracy, where many interest groups compete for influence and no single group dominates; and from participatory democracy, which emphasizes broad and active citizen involvement. Elitist democracy best captures how an influential minority can steer government policy even within a democratic framework.