Aristocracy Definition

The term aristocracy comes from the Greek word aristokratia, meaning “rule by
the best,” being those individuals considered to be most qualified to govern the
society because of their moral and intellectual superiority. The term aristocracy
may apply not only to a governmental ruling class but also to the highest social
class in a given society. Holding honorary titles, such as Duke, Duchess, Baron, or
Baroness, members of the aristocratic class enjoy both political powers as well as
social and economic prestige.

The most distinguishing characteristics of both political and social aristocracies

are the methods by their elite few members are selected.

Most often, aristocrats inherit their positions, often through centuries of family
lineage. This method reflects the ancient but unfounded belief that members of
some families are genetically more fit to rule than others. Aristocrats, especially
in governmental aristocracies, may be chosen based on their superior intellect
and proven leadership ability. Aristocrats may also be selected by favor—the
granting of high rank by monarchs to individuals who have served them best.
Finally, positions within the aristocracy may be based purely on personal wealth,
either earned or inherited. In wealth-based aristocracies, members of the lower
economic classes have no chance of attaining political power, no matter how
great their intellect or merit.

In modern times, membership in the aristocratic ruling class may be based on

heredity, wealth, military or religious status, education, or a combination of
similar attributes. In any of these cases, the people of the common classes are not
allowed to participate in an aristocratic government, as they are in
a representative democracy or a parliamentary monarchy.

Aristocracy vs. Oligarchy

Aristocracy and oligarchy are both forms of government in which the society is
ruled by a small group of people. However, there are some key differences. Most
significantly, while aristocracy is “rule by the best,” oligarchy is “rule by the few.”

Aristocracies are comprised of individuals considered best fit to rule because of

their nobility—a level of moral and intellectual superiority that is assumed to
have been genetically passed down through family lines. Oligarchies, on the other
hand, are made up of people who are simply more wealthy and powerful than the
rest of the population. In the words of Aristotle, “…wherever men rule by reason
of their wealth, whether they be few or many, that is an oligarchy.”
Since their position is typically insured through inheritance, aristocrats tend to
act in the best interest of society. In contrast, oligarchs, whose status is typically
dependent on maintaining their current level of wealth, tend to act out of their
economic self-interest. In this manner, oligarchy is often associated with
corruption, oppression, and tyranny.