The course will cover both traditional and new elite theories, examine contemporary empirical evidence on the rise of the new global plutocracy, and think about the long-term implications of this phenomenon for inequality, culture, and society.

THE GLOBAL ELITE: F. Scott Fitzgerald once remarked that the elite are different from you and me. This is especially true for the new global super-elite. No longer restricted by the boundaries of traditional nation states, this century’s rich and famous are making their mark felt on our globally connected society in a singularly potent way. Who are these people? In what ways are they different from the rest of us? How did they become so powerful? Are there connections and interactions among them? And how do they shape our global economic policy, culture, and intellectual life? These are some of the questions that we will explore during the semester. Along the way, we will familiarize ourselves with both traditional and new elite theories, examine contemporary empirical evidence on the rise of the new global plutocracy, and think about the long-term implications of this phenomenon for inequality, culture, and society.

Credit Restrictions

Course may NOT be repeated for credit. Students who took Soc. 189 in Spring 2013 will not receive credit for Soc. 189G.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills