Synergy Approach to the Theory of Elites

The author of the study defines elite as the key element that forms the structure of social space. She sets a problem of dispersing of elite and their role in structuring the society. The author's approach differs from the traditional ones because she calls it synergy. She introduces the notion of "ersatz-elite" as an antipode to "elite". The distinction between them is based on different ways of basic needs satisfaction. Consequently, they play different social roles. The author analyzes mechanism of social contradictions between elite and ersatz-elite. She comes to a conclusion that if the elite is presented on top-levels of social pyramid then the choice towards evolutional stabilization is made by rational management.

Autorentext

LESSYA VASILIEVA is associate Professor at the Moscow State University of Communication Means (MIIT). She is engaged in political sociology. At present she teaches philosophy at MIIT. Now she is the author of fifty published articles on political science, philosophy and sociology and four manuscripts about synergy approach to the theory of elites.