Which of the following fits best with the definition of a plutocracy? A
A society experiencing an increase in social mobility and constant disparity in the concentration of wealth
B A society experiencing a decrease in social mobility and constant disparity in the concentration of wealth
C A society experiencing an increase in social mobility and an exacerbation of the inequitable concentration of wealth
D A society experiencing a decrease in social mobility and an exacerbation of the inequitable concentration of wealth
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D: A society experiencing a decrease in social mobility and an exacerbation of the inequitable concentration of wealth.
Explanation:
A plutocracy is a society or system where power is concentrated in the hands of the wealthy, and economic power dominates the political process. This term is often used to describe systems where the richest individuals or families have disproportionate influence over public policies, laws, and regulations that can further protect and increase their wealth. In a plutocratic system, wealth inequality tends to worsen, with the rich becoming richer and the poor becoming poorer, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to move upward in society.
The key features of plutocracy are:
- Exacerbation of inequitable wealth concentration: In a plutocracy, the wealth gap between the richest and the poorest widens. The elite, who control vast amounts of wealth, often use their financial power to influence government decisions, shaping policies that benefit their interests. This may include tax policies, labor laws, or subsidies that further entrench their wealth.
- Decrease in social mobility: Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social and economic ladder. In a plutocracy, social mobility typically decreases, meaning it becomes harder for individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to achieve higher levels of income or success. The concentration of wealth and power means that opportunities for education, employment, and upward mobility are limited to a select few, often those born into wealth or privilege.
In contrast, options A, B, and C either describe situations where wealth disparity is not exacerbated or social mobility increases, neither of which aligns with the core characteristics of a plutocracy. Therefore, D is the most accurate description of a plutocracy, where both the wealth gap and the lack of social mobility become more pronounced.