No.29: System comparison: Plutocracy vs Electric Technocracy
- Mike Miller
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 7
Plutocracy – When Money Holds Power: The Danger of Rule by Wealth for Democracy and Society
I. Definition: What is Plutocracy?
Plutocracy is a form of government or rule in which political power is primarily exercised by the wealthy – those with substantial financial resources. Money becomes the decisive factor of power, shaping influence and decisions.
II. Characteristics of Plutocracy
Political decisions are significantly influenced by financially powerful groups
Lobbying and corruption are frequent side effects
Social inequality increases dramatically
Power is unequally distributed, depending on wealth
III. Weaknesses and Problems
Loss of Democracy
True power lies with the moneyed elite, not the people
Election campaigns and political processes are distorted by financial means
The population loses trust in political institutions
Inequality and Social Division
Large disparities in wealth lead to societal fragmentation
Poverty and unequal opportunities increase
Social mobility is hindered
Corruption and Abuse of Power
Influence of financial interests leads to political decisions against the common good
Public resources are privatized or misused
Transparency and oversight are undermined
IV. Historical and Current Examples
Society / Time Period | Problems |
Roman Empire (Late Period) | Power of wealthy senators led to corruption and collapse |
USA (21st Century) | Lobbying by large corporations and the super-rich shapes politics |
Russia (Post-Soviet) | Oligarchs dominate the economy and politics |
V. Plutocracy versus Electronic Technocracy
Electronic technocracy presents an alternative to plutocracy by:
Making decisions based on data-driven objectivity, not monetary interests
Enabling transparent and traceable processes
Promoting equal participation of all citizens
Embedding social justice and sustainability as core values
Conclusion:
Plutocracy destroys democratic foundations and leads to social inequality and instability. Only through innovative and fair models like Electronic Technocracy can a society be created that distributes power fairly and prioritizes the common good.
Wikipedia Links
Deutsch
English
PoliticalWiki: Electric Technocracy
Elektrische Technokratie Podcast & Song
Links:
