HISET Social Studies Practice

In terms of government, what is typically true of an oligarchy?

1. Power is distributed evenly among citizens

2. Control is held by a small, elite group

3. It promotes direct democracy

4. It emphasizes rule by the majority

The correct answer is: Control is held by a small, elite group

An oligarchy is characterized by control being held by a small, elite group, often made up of individuals who share common interests, wealth, or social status. This concentration of power allows a few people to make decisions that affect the larger population, which often results in governance that serves the interests of that elite group rather than the broader citizenry. In contrast, the notion of power being distributed evenly among citizens aligns more closely with democratic or participatory systems, while direct democracy implies citizen participation in decision-making without the influence of an elite class. Additionally, emphasizing rule by the majority is indicative of a democratic framework where majority rule is important, which is fundamentally different from the principles of an oligarchy, where the interests of the few prevail over the needs and desires of the many. Thus, the correct understanding of oligarchy centers on the concentration of power within a select group.