Ishan BhatnagarAIR 5 · CSE 2025 · 187 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
The pluralist theory of power argues that power is diffused in modern societies, and wielded by multiple groups and social actors.
Body · points
Tenets of Pluralist Theory
Negates elite theory by arguing for wide dispersion of power in society.
Multi-central power: Pluralist theory argues that different groups in society vie with one another for the promotion of individual interests.
Nature of state: Contrary to marxist theory of state promoting dominant interests, pluralists argue that state acts as neutral arbiter of various interests.
Nature of civil society: as one populated by a diversity of interests in negotiations and deliberations with one another.
Limitations in late-modern societies
Ignores entrenched elite interests as pointed out by C.W. Mills of military, bureaucratic and political elites.
Ignores hegemonic influence of dominant ideology in shaping public opinion (Gramsci).
Underplays corporate and state controls over media, that shape narratives and only highlight "safe" issues (Chomsky).
Limits engagement with transformation of public sphere as unreflective, consumption driven (Habermas).
Close
These concerns are accentuated in age of social media algorithms and attention economy.