Loading ...parts:
An oligarchy is a governmental system in which teh government is controlled by a small group of people, or oligarchs. The term “oligarch” comes from an ancient Greek word, “oligarkhia”, which means “the rule of the few.” Oligarchs typically gain control through financial means, such as donating heavily to politicians who, in turn, rule in ways dictated by the oligarchs. However, oligarchs may also gain influence through their social status/nobility; fame; education; or political, religious, or military connections. Oligarchies in which a family rules often result in power being passed down from generation to generation. Several modern countries could be described as oligarchies, including Russia, China, and arguably even the United States.
When oligarchy governments become more self-serving, they typically become more authoritative and take on controlling, sometimes even oppressive or exploitative governmental policies. Income inequality tends to increase as wealth is funneled towards rulers instead of those in the working class. The middle class shrinks as the rich get richer and the poor grow poorer. Additionally, a soured oligarchy tends to inhibit economic growth and creative agility due to a ruling class focused on maintaining the status quo, typically at the expense of actions that would benefit the middle and lower classes. Lastly, an oligarchy can result in puppet leaders—weak politicians who present as strong leaders, but are in fact mere figureheads controlled by the oligarchs who funded their election campaigns.
Opinions differ upon whether the United States can be considered an oligarchy. Americans enjoy many features of a democratic government, such as elections and freedom of speech. However, there exists substantial evidence that powerful corporations and affluent individuals have a significantly larger influence on policymaking than ordinary citizens. For example, corporations and even private individuals are legally allowed to donate massive amounts of money to politicians’ political campaigns, enabling their chosen candidates—typically those who put corporate interests ahead of those of non-wealthy people or the environment—to fund many more advertisements, assistants, and other resources (even disinformation campaigns) than their opponents. Corporations and individuals can also hire lobbyists to influence politicians already in office. In light of this scenario, many economists and researchers maintain that while the United States is a democracy in theory, it is an oligarchy in actual practice—or is at least heading in the direction of one.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/oligarchy-countries