America's two-party political system, arguing that it does not threaten the true ruling elite. It outlines how power ultimately remains concentrated among a select few, regardless of which political party is in power.
1. Myth of Peaceful Transition of Power: The media often hails the peaceful transfer of power during new presidential inaugurations, suggesting a legitimate democratic process. However, this overlooks the fact that true power remains with a governing elite who control political dynamics.
2. Non-existence of "Will of the People": The concept that elections reflect the people's desires is dismissed as a fantasy. Effective representation does not truly exist in practice, undermining claims of a democratic mandate for elected officials.
3. Minimal Policy Changes: Even as political parties change, significant policy areas such as foreign policy and welfare typically remain untouched. Any notable shifts occur mainly in less critical areas, showcasing the continuity of elite control.
4. Access Control: Political positions are controlled by a select group, limiting who is eligible for office. This gatekeeping ensures that only candidates acceptable to the ruling elite can compete for positions of influence.
5. Nature of Political Elites: Drawing on insights from sociologist Vilfredo Pareto, the article explains that ruling elites consist of a complex network of diverse interests, rather than a singular group. This system is driven by economic self-interest and is characterized by a blend of cooperation and competition among various factions.
6. Parties Defined by Their Role: Political parties in democracies can be categorized into two types: those that participate in government (pro-regime) and those that are excluded due to their uncompromising nature (revolutionary). Only the former poses no real threat to the established power structure.
7. Voter Options Are Limited: Voters are often presented with candidates chosen by the political parties, sparking questions about the authenticity of their electoral choices and leading back to the maintained power of elites.
8. Prevention of Genuine Competition: The system ensures that parties outside the elite’s acceptable framework cannot gain power. If any governing party threatens the status quo, it risks losing its status and being labeled as unacceptable.
Overall, the article argues that the apparent alternation of power between the Democratic and Republican parties is merely a façade. These parties serve the interests of the existing elite rather than providing a genuine challenge to their authority. Consequently, it is unrealistic to expect substantial change through traditional electoral processes, as the elite's interests remain tied to their control over political dynamics. The two-party system, therefore, continues to support and protect the ruling elite rather than threatening it.
https://mises.org/mises-wire/why-americas-two-party-system-will-never-threaten-true-political-elites
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