Part II. The characteristic features of positivism (Latin 'positivus' - positive):Lecture # 13 PHILOSOPHICAL THOUGHT Of XIX – early XX centuries Part II Content of the lecture: 1. The theory of elites
The theory of elites is the concept, which assumes that people in general cannot control the state and society. Elites of different ages were selected for a variety of attributes - strength, origin, education, experience, ability, wealth, etc. Developed societies always included the ability to reach the most capable representatives of the people. From the point of view of this theory in the so-called democratic states is not governed by the whole people. They are governed by some part of elites, who are fighting for power. But people can manage these elites, using the right to vote. Division of people into the elite and non-elite were based on religious, moral and ethical beliefs. The representatives of the Italian school of political sociology were first who proposed the concept of elites on experience and real political events. There were: N.Machiavelli, G. Mosca, V.Pareto, R. Michels (Italy). The school was also called Machiavellian.
Gaetano Mosca (1854-1941) He analyzed the political power in society. Access to the political elite requires special skills and abilities. In primitive society valued military prowess (ерлік/доблесть) and courage (батылдық/мужество), after money and wealth. But the most important criterion for the selection of the elite was the ability to manage. Mosca distinguished autocratic and liberal management styles. In the first power was transmitted from the top down, in the second power was delegated upwards. Vilfredo Pareto (1848-1923) Pareto called the history as the cemetery of elites. Minorities fight and come to power. Then they are in decline and are replaced by other minorities. Elites tend to decline. Non-elites in turn are able to create a worthy (абыройлы/достойный) successor. Often the children of the elite may not have the outstanding qualities of parents. That is why there are the need for constant change and the circulation of elites. The old elites always lose energy. Robert Michels (1876-1936) He said that democracy is impossible. The masses of people are incompetent and indifferent (енжарлы/равнодушный). They need guidance on them. Masses need the leader to manage them an organization. This organization should divide people into rulers and subordinates. Michels later became the supporter of fascism in Italy and in Germany.
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