oligarchy etymology

Etymology

  • Greek "oligarchia"
  • "oligos" (few) + "arkhos" (leader)

Meaning and Origin

Oligarchy is a form of government in which a small group of individuals exercises political power over a society.

Origin

The concept of oligarchy has been recognized since ancient Greece. In Greek city-states, oligarchies were common forms of government. These oligarchies were typically composed of wealthy landowners or merchants who controlled political and economic life.

Use

The term "oligarchy" has been used to describe various forms of government throughout history. In modern times, it is often used to refer to governments where a small, powerful elite dominates political decision-making and controls access to resources. Oligarchies can arise in different ways, including:

  • Economic concentration: When wealth and power become concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or families, they can exert undue influence on political processes.
  • Political manipulation: Ruling elites may use their control of institutions to manipulate elections and suppress dissent, ensuring their continued power.
  • Military force: In some cases, oligarchies may emerge through military coups or by establishing a monopoly on the use of force.

oligarchy relate terms

  • archon

    Etymology From Ancient Greek άρχων archōn meaning ruler Meaning and Origin

  • oligarch

    Etymology From Latin oligarchia from Greek oligarkhia from oligos few arkhos

  • oligarchy

    Etymology Greek oligarchia oligos few arkhos leader Meaning and Origin Ol

  • oligarchic

    Oligarchic Etymology The word oligarchic comes from the Greek words oligos meaning

  • oligarchy

    Etymology Greek oligarchia oligos few arkhos leader Meaning and Origin Ol

  • aristocracy

    Etymology The word aristocracy comes from the Greek words aristos best most excelle

  • faction

    Etymology The word faction is derived from the Latin word factio which means a do

  • factor

    Etymology Latin factum a deed act event Past participle of facere to do make

  • intrinsic

    Etymology Intrinsic comes from the Latin word intrinsecus meaning within or int

  • keel

    Etymology The word keel comes from the Middle English word kele which is derived fr

  • implement

    Etymology Etymology is the study of the origin history and development of words It see

  • perceive

    Etymology Latin percipere to take hold of lay hold of Proto Indo European per

  • aesthetic

    Etymology Aesthetic derives from the Greek word aisthētikos which means pertaining

  • affinity

    Etymology Latin affinitas meaning relationship by marriage Old French affinité