The 'Futility Thesis' and the Uncomfortable Truth of Elite Rule

Abstract

Elite rule has been dominant throughout much of the history of human civilization. It has survived numerous trials and tribulations. Many elites that have been prominent in the past have disappeared, but elite rule has survived as new elites have emerged to take place of the old. This remarkable endurance of elite rule against all adversities has given rise to the so-called “futility thesis”—a conviction that elite rule is inescapable and that all hopes to create a democracy based on equality and universal inclusion and empowerment is but a forlorn dream.

This article disputes the “futility thesis.” This thesis leads to an inevitable conclusion that exclusion cannot be eliminated. The article argues that the elimination of exclusion is not only possible but that it is necessary for sustaining our civilization. The fact that the demand for inclusion is prominent in the current political turmoil indicates that there is a growing realization of the need to end exclusion.

In developing its thesis, the article addresses several problems that elite theory has failed to resolve, such as the relationship between elites and power, the origin of elites, and “elite circulation.” It argues that the disappearance of elites will not diminish society’s access to knowledge, skills, and expertise. On the contrary, inclusionary practices will only enhance this access. Finally, the article outlines new inclusionary practices in knowledge production, management, and leadership.

Keywords: elites, elite rule, futility thesis, democratic elitism, elite circulation, inclusion, knowledge production, management, leadership