There has been a long debate about the support between elite - led interpretation theory and popular - based interpretation theory. This sort of discussion arises when discussing political parties. This difference is reflected in the discussion of the ideological space and the position of the parties in that field. The problem that arises is whether elite factions or masses are promoting the emergence of the problem and the ideological position of specific political parties. When creating an ideological agenda, a problem occurs, then an agenda is set up and the position of the parties is changed.
Elite theory is suitable for focusing on organization based elite. It is wider than national autonomy and Marxist theory, but does not take the four major organizational bases pointed out by the four network theory as a general starting point. It also does not give the necessary focus on American bourgeoisie. It is difficult to incorporate the importance of class conflict by emphasizing the interdependence between elite and non-elite.
Elite theory believes that the wealthy elite is active in the United States. The economic elite consists of the same people as the political elite (wealth is equal to power). Elite exerts power to the masses. Many political scientists believe in this theory. The main supporters are Karl Marx, Gaetano Mosca, Robert Michel ("The Law of Iron Loss") and C. Light Mills (Power Elite). This theory thinks that very wealthy families such as Rockefeller, Ford, Pew, etc. are in power. They often live in the northeastern part and are participating in exclusive preparatory schools and Ivy League universities. They often belong to mainstream Protestant churches and they marry each other. Members of the elite usually do not hold the status of the government, but depend on the officials chosen by the elections they work for. Wealth of a few generations is necessary to reach the elite stage. When they reach the summit, the new members of the elite will be totally sociable
Economic elite and unity of the public or business world. The latter discovery, which surprised us, may reflect the motivation for cross-company profitability, in stark contrast to the wider ideological view of elite individuals. For example, the economic elite tend to prefer lower levels of government expenditure in almost all areas, but it is common for lobbying in business groups and in certain sectors where profitable areas are available. As a result, pharmaceuticals, hospitals, insurance, and medical institutions are lobbying for increased medical expenses, defense contractors for weapons systems, and increased medical expenses.
Try American political theory: elite, interest groups and average citizen Martin Gilens and Benjamin I.