oligarchy
OLL-ih-gar-kee
/ˈɒlɪɡɑːrki/
A small group of people having control of a country, organization, or institution.
Often implies that the ruling group is corrupt or acting in their own selfish interests rather than the public good.
The story behind the word. Aristotle used this term to describe a 'debased' form of aristocracy. While an aristocracy was supposed to be rule by the 'best,' an oligarchy was rule by the few for their own gain.
Word relationships
- triumvirate: A triumvirate is specifically a group of three, while an oligarchy can be any small number.
- democracy: Rule by the many (the people) rather than the few.
Commonly confused with
- autocracy: Autocracy is rule by one person; oligarchy is rule by a small group.
Word family
- oligarch (noun): A member of an oligarchy.
Collocations
- ruling oligarchy
- corporate oligarchy
- financial oligarchy
Example sentences
- "The country had transitioned from a democracy to a corporate oligarchy where three families controlled the media." Political analysis.
- "The Iron Law of Oligarchy suggests that all complex organizations eventually succumb to rule by a few." Historical reference.
Memory hook
Oligarchy starts with 'O'—think of a small 'O' circle of friends keeping everyone else out. Only a few: Oligarchy.
When not to use
Avoid using it for a large, representative government; it specifically requires a 'few' at the top.
Fun facts
- The 'Iron Law of Oligarchy' was a theory by Robert Michels stating that even the most democratic organizations eventually become oligarchies.
Related words
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