The assignment: Create a matrix between the pluralistic and elitist perspective. When differentiating between the two perspectives, provide examples of each perspective. Identify instances of who might fill these roles.
I need help with terminology to finding the examples.
I agree. There must be a simpler way of explaining this assignment.
Here are two websites that should help you with the definitions.
https://www.google.com/webhp?source=search_app#q=matrix+definition
http://wps.ablongman.com/long_wasserman_bag_12/36/9375/2400153.cw/content/index.html
To create a matrix between the pluralistic and elitist perspective, you can follow these steps:
1. Understand the Pluralistic Perspective: Pluralism is a political theory that believes power should be dispersed among different groups and individuals in society. It emphasizes diversity and competition among different interest groups. In a pluralistic perspective:
- Power is shared and distributed among various social, political, and economic actors.
- Decisions and policies are made through negotiation, compromise, and consensus-building.
- There is an emphasis on equal representation and inclusivity.
2. Understand the Elitist Perspective: Elitism is a political theory that believes power should be concentrated in the hands of a few elite individuals or groups. It emphasizes the inherent inequality within society. In an elitist perspective:
- Power is concentrated in the hands of a few influential individuals or groups.
- Decisions and policies are primarily made by the elite ruling class.
- There is a belief that only a select few have the knowledge, skills, and ability to govern effectively.
To find examples and identify instances for each perspective, you can consider the following terminologies:
Term 1: Interest Groups
- Pluralistic Perspective: Look for examples of interest groups that advocate for specific issues or represent particular demographics. These groups promote their interests and engage in lobbying activities to influence policy decisions. Examples might include environmental organizations, labor unions, or civil rights advocacy groups.
- Elitist Perspective: Identify interest groups that have a prominent role in shaping policy decisions due to their significant influence over the political system. These groups often have strong ties to powerful economic or corporate entities. Examples might include industry associations, corporate lobbying groups, or well-funded political action committees (PACs).
Term 2: Power Distribution
- Pluralistic Perspective: Look for instances where power is dispersed among different actors and decision-making processes involve equal representation. Examples might include participation in local community councils, social forums, or citizen advisory boards.
- Elitist Perspective: Identify instances where power is concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or groups who exercise control over resources, institutions, or policy-making. Examples might include monarchies, oligarchies, or closed-door decision-making processes dominated by a select few.
Term 3: Decision-making Processes
- Pluralistic Perspective: Look for situations where decision-making processes involve negotiation, compromise, and consensus-building among various stakeholders. Examples might include legislative bodies, town hall meetings, or participatory budgeting processes.
- Elitist Perspective: Identify situations where decision-making processes are centralized and dominated by a select few. Examples might include autocratic or dictatorial regimes, where decisions are made by a single ruling individual or a small group without widespread input or debate.
By using these terminologies and understanding the characteristics of pluralism and elitism, you can identify and explain examples for each perspective in your matrix.