There's several theories out there as far as who really rules in a democracy: the elites, the interest groups, the miltiary, or the people. In our complex society, I can certainly understand why all four theories could hold water. I hate to say it, but I think the power elite is more like what our government has turned into. According to C. Wright Mills, the power elite mainly consists of white protestant men who are from wealthy families. These men have had very similiar back grounds from the same prestigious college educations, to the same country clubs and fraternities, and the same government committees. As far as what they want, that too, is very similiar. Furthermore, according to Mills, the people really do not have that much power over what can happen. We see it all the time, the wealthy business leaders contribute to the campaign funds or to the interest groups, and those running for elected office take that money and then work towards the interest of those who pay the most for the campaign.
I by no means think that's the end all of how it works. I have personally seen how the little people can make change if they are consistent. And so I do encourage everyone to try to be involved and to vote. But as for what I agree with the most, would be the power elite theory.
Yes Michelle, you are very right. Instead of grumbling about whats going on around us we should exercise our voting rights. It is very wrong when people think their votes don't count. Every drop no matter how small makes the ocean. We have no one but ourselves to blame if we don't make use of our constitutional right to vote.
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