ruling elite
Those who govern
The ruling elite are those who hold dominant power in a society—the small group that controls political decisions, economic resources, or cultural influence.
The phrase carries critical or analytical overtones, suggesting power concentrated among the few: The ruling elite have no interest in reform.
Often used to highlight distance between those who govern and those governed.
- upper classWealthiest societal stratum
- capitalistsOwners of productive wealth
- patriciansHereditary ruling class
- czarsRussian absolute monarchs
- aristocracyRule by hereditary elite
emperors · nobility · landed gentry · oligarchy · old boys club · smoke-filled rooms · halls of power · autocracy · colonial governors · feudal lords · tycoons · gentry · financiers · bourgeoisie · magnates · gatekeepers · ivory tower · kingmakers
- elite poweroligarchy, plutocracy, oligarch, plutocrat, oligarchs
- North KoreaPyongyang, Kim Jong Un, Kim Jong-un, Kim Jong Il, Kim Jong-il
- classesfirst class, acting class, second class, third class, baking class
- Power Centersheadquarters, head office, main office, central office, command center
- Gulf StatesSaudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait
ruling elitecommon people
Non-elite members of society
masses · underclass · ordinary people · working class · commoners
ruling elitesubjects
Areas of study
citizenry · electorate · constituents · body politic · demos
ruling elitesubjects
Areas of study
citizenry · electorate · constituents · rank and file · voiceless