No.33: System comparison: Timocracy vs Electric Technocracy
- Mike Miller
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 7
Timocracy – When Property Rules Over Dignity
I. Definition: What is a Timocracy?
Timocracy (from the Greek “timé” = honor/property) is a form of government in which political power is tied to wealth or military merit. Originally described by Plato and Aristotle, it was seen as an intermediate stage between aristocracy and oligarchy—and as a degenerated form of rule based on virtue.
II. Characteristics of Timocracy
Civil rights and political participation depend on wealth or land ownership
Poor segments of the population are excluded from political life
Often linked to an excessive focus on military honor, discipline, and “duty”
Separation of powers is often absent; power is concentrated among property owners
III. Weaknesses and Dangers
Social Exclusion
Political participation is permitted only for a wealthy minority. Poor people have neither a voice nor protection
Inequality as a Principle
Rule is justified not by competence or ethics, but by property—a concept that contradicts human dignity
Militarization of Thought
In historical timocracies, “honor” and “duty” were often pretexts for wars and disciplining the masses
IV. Historical Examples
Society | Timocratic Characteristics |
Sparta (Antiquity) | Power of the warrior caste, dispossession of non-Spartans, systemic oppression of Helots |
Athens (early 6th c. BC) | Solon's reforms allocated civic rights based on wealth classes |
USA in the 18th Century | Voting rights long reserved for property-owning (white) individuals |
V. Comparison to Electronic Technocracy
Timocracy | Electronic Technocracy |
Power based on property | Power based on competence and contribution |
Exclusion of the poor | Inclusive, global participation |
Logic of war and property | Logic of peace and knowledge |
Reactionary | Future-oriented |
VI. Conclusion:
Timocracy is an exclusionary and reactionary form of rule in which the “right of property” is placed above the “value of the person.” It promotes inequality, militaristic pride, and political passivity. Electronic Technocracy overcomes this model by enabling fair participation for all—regardless of origin, wealth, or status
Wikipedia Links
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PoliticalWiki: Electric Technocracy
Elektrische Technokratie Podcast & Song
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