Part 7/11:
Sultanistic oligarchies, exemplified by Russia under Vladimir Putin, showcase a more authoritarian form with a singular powerful oligarch dominating others, maintaining control through fear and repression.
Understanding these differences allows for better comprehension of how oligarchs interact with their political systems.
The U.S.: An Oligarchy in Transition?
The U.S. has elements of both democracy and oligarchy. While elections occur, the concerns surrounding campaign financing and the influence of wealthy individuals suggest an oligarchic undertone. Thus, despite several democratic attributes, the U.S. has not fully insulated itself from the risk of sliding into an oligarchy.