Distinguishing Aristocracy from Oligarchy

Oligarchy and aristocracy are classical regimes or forms of government discussed by the Greek philosopher Plato, along with Timocracy, democracy, and tyranny. Plato believed that aristocracy was the best form of governance, while tyranny was the worst, and that oligarchy resulted from the degeneration of aristocracy. It is essential to understand the differences between aristocracy and oligarchy, which often confuse people due to their similarities. Depending on the circumstances, both oligarchy and aristocracy can be in place in a country.

Aristocracy originates from the Greek word Aristokratia, meaning “rule of the best.” This is why both Aristotle and Plato considered aristocracy to be the best type of governance. The term gained prominence in ancient Greece, where a class of eminent citizens was deemed best qualified to rule the people. These individuals, known as aristocrats, belonged to the upper class and enjoyed powers and privileges not available to common people. The government, consisting of these people from the upper class, was also considered the most capable government.

Oligarchy, on the other hand, is the rule of the chosen few, who happen to be rich and privileged. Society is divided between the rich and the poor, with the rich entrusted with the power to rule the people. In an oligarchy, the chosen few are in charge of administration either because they were born in a certain class or because they have wealth or control resources. Oligarchy should not be confused with monarchy, as privileged people in oligarchy do not necessarily have blue blood, as is required in monarchies.

## Key Takeaways

– Oligarchy is the rule of the few in a generic way, while aristocracy is a form of governance where power is in the hands of a special class of people with privileges.
– Aristocrats are not connected to royal families through blood, but they are second in the social hierarchy.
– In some places, both oligarchy and aristocracy are practiced, and some experts consider oligarchy to be a degenerated form of aristocracy.