Elitism and change

Only the most abused forms of democracy are in practice in much of South Asia.

Elitism is not only difficult to comprehend in social studies but also equally paradoxical and ubiquitous in the actual exercise of power. As a concept, it indicates a limited group of people belonging to a variety of areas that wield, dominate and influence power and policies. So even in a democracy, it has become a self-contradictory term as democracy demands equal participation. The emphasis on making democracy more participatory to enhance the empowerment of the weaker and marginalised sections becomes redundant if the elitist nature of politics remains unchanged. Surprisingly, however, even democratic governance worldwide is increasingly becoming elitist that confines power and privileges to a narrow circle of people.