How do pluralist and elitist theories differ?

How do pluralist and elitist theories differ?

• A. Pluralists think only elites influence policy
• B. Pluralists see power distributed among many groups; elitists see power concentrated among a few
• C. Pluralists think in many groups influence policy
• D. Pluralists and elitists have the same view on power

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is how power in policymaking is distributed in different theories. Pluralist thinking argues that influence comes from many groups—labor unions, business associations, professional groups, advocacy organizations—so policy results from competition and bargaining among a broad array of actors. Elitist theory, on the other hand, holds that a relatively small, interconnected set of elites—often with money and access—dominates decision-making, shaping policy to reflect their interests. Because of that contrast, the best choice says that power is distributed among many groups in pluralism while power is concentrated among a few inelitism. This captures the essential difference between the two views.