Q. Discuss the concept of Circulation of Elites. (UPSC CSE Sociology Optional, 2019 | 10 Marks)
Introduction
The concept of Circulation of Elites was propounded by Vilfredo Pareto. He argued that every society is ruled by a minority elite, but no ruling class remains permanent. Over time, old elites are replaced by new elites, ensuring the continuity of elite rule.
I. Concept of Circulation of Elites
1. Elite Rule is Inevitable
Pareto believed that society is always divided into a ruling elite and the non-elite because some individuals possess superior abilities.
Example: Political leaders occupying key positions in government.
2. No Elite Remains Permanent
Over time, ruling elites lose their effectiveness due to corruption, rigidity, or loss of public support.
Example: Decline of feudal elites after the spread of democracy.
3. Replacement by New Elites
Talented individuals from non-elite groups gradually replace the old ruling elite.
Example: Rise of OBC political leadership in India after the Mandal Commission.
4. Lions and Foxes
Pareto classified governing elites into ‘Lions’, who rely on force and tradition, and ‘Foxes’, who rely on diplomacy, negotiation, and manipulation. Stable governance requires a balance between both.
Example: Coalition politics reflecting the strategies of ‘Foxes’.
5. Continuous Process
The circulation of elites is gradual and continuous, preventing complete stagnation of society.
Example: Electoral change of governments in democratic countries.
II. Relevance of the Theory
1. Explains Political Change
The theory explains why governments change while elite domination continues.
Example: Change in ruling parties without altering the overall structure of power.
2. Promotes Social Mobility
It provides opportunities for capable individuals from lower social groups to enter leadership positions.
Example: Leaders from marginalized communities becoming Chief Ministers.
Conclusion
Pareto’s concept of Circulation of Elites explains that while elites are inevitable, their composition changes over time. The theory remains relevant for understanding political leadership, elite replacement, and changing power structures, though democratic institutions today have widened opportunities for public participation.
Thinkers
- Vilfredo Pareto – Circulation of Elites.
- Gaetano Mosca – Ruling Class Theory.
- Robert Michels – Iron Law of Oligarchy.
- C. Wright Mills – Power Elite.
| POLITICS AND SOCIETY { BOTH P1 &P2 } | |
| POWER ELITE | |
| 2016 ||| Paper 1 – 5b ||| Discuss the importance of ‘power elite’ in democracy. 10 | ANSWER |
| 2022 ||| Paper 2 – 6c ||| Discuss the changing natures of structure of political elites. 10 | ANSWER |
| 2018 ||| Paper 1 – 7c ||| What according to Pareto, are the basic characteristics of elites ? Discuss. 10 | ANSWER |
| 2019 ||| Paper 1 – 7c | Discuss the concept of circulation of elite. 10 Marks | ANSWER |
| 2019 ||| Paper 1 – 6b ||| What are the theoretical models of societal power ? Which one of them is most applicable in advanced industrial societies ? 20 | ANSWER |
| 2020 ||| Paper 1 – 6b ||| According to Mills, “Elites rule in institutional terms rather than psychological terms.” Comment. 20 | ANSWER |
| 2021 ||| Paper 1 – 5b ||| Critically examine the relevance of Vilfredo Pareto’s theory of Circulation of Elites in the present scenario. 10 | ANSWER |
| 2023 ||| Paper 1 – 2a ||| What, according to Robert Michels, is the iron law of oligarchy? Do lions and foxes in Vilfredo Pareto’s theory, essentially differ from each other? Substantiate | ANSWER |
| 2018 ||| Paper 1 – 7c ||| What according to Pareto, are the basic characteristics of elites ? Discuss. 10 | ANSWER |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Circulation of Elites
What is the circulation of elites?
The circulation of elites is a concept developed by Italian sociologist Vilfredo Pareto. It explains that every society is governed by a small group of elites, but these elites are not permanent. Over time, old elites lose their power and are replaced by new elites, ensuring continuous social and political change.
Who gave the theory of circulation of elites?
The theory of circulation of elites was proposed by Vilfredo Pareto, an Italian sociologist and economist. It is one of the most important theories in political sociology and elite theory.
Why is the circulation of elites important in sociology?
The circulation of elites is important because it explains how power changes hands in society. It highlights that no ruling class remains dominant forever, as new talented individuals eventually replace existing elites.
What are governing and non-governing elites?
According to Pareto, governing elites directly exercise political and administrative power, while non-governing elites possess influence in areas such as business, education, religion, media, science, and culture but do not directly govern.
What are the ‘Lions’ and ‘Foxes’ in Pareto’s theory?
Pareto classified elites into Lions and Foxes. Lions rely on strength, authority, discipline, and tradition, whereas Foxes depend on intelligence, diplomacy, innovation, negotiation, and manipulation. A balance between the two is necessary for stable governance.
What causes the circulation of elites?
Elite circulation occurs because ruling elites gradually become inefficient, corrupt, or disconnected from society. At the same time, capable individuals from lower social groups rise and replace them through political, economic, or social mobility.
Is the circulation of elites a form of social mobility?
Yes. Pareto viewed the circulation of elites as a special form of vertical social mobility in which talented individuals move into elite positions while less competent elites lose their status.
What is an example of the circulation of elites?
Examples include democratic elections where new political leaders replace existing governments, the rise of technology entrepreneurs as influential economic elites, and social reformers entering positions of power.
What are the criticisms of Pareto’s circulation of elites?
Critics argue that Pareto overemphasized elites and underestimated democracy, public participation, social movements, and institutions. Marxists also criticize the theory for ignoring class conflict and economic inequality.
Why is the circulation of elites important for UPSC Sociology optional?
The circulation of elites is a frequently asked topic in UPSC Sociology Optional, UGC NET Sociology, and state PSC examinations. Understanding Pareto’s theory helps answer questions on elite theory, power, political sociology, and social stratification.