Class Domination Theory Flashcards

Collective and Distributive Power

• Collective power refers to the strength of "the people," historically significant in labor movements; for example, a minimum wage adjustment was $13.83.
• Distributive power is held by the upper class, influencing economic and social dynamics within society.

Class Domination Mechanics

• Domination by the upper class is not only institutional but also structural, making it less visible to the general populace.
• Class domination theory asserts the existence of an upper class possessing the means to fulfill their desires regardless of opposition, identified as both an economic and social class.

Class Issues and Wealth Control

• Upper-class individuals share exclusive educational experiences, interactions, and memberships, reinforcing their social bonds and privileges.
• This class owns and controls wealth that generates income, establishing a significant economic divide.

Organizational Networks

• Key organizational networks that influence power dynamics include religion, military, economy, and politics, each serving distinct roles in societal structures.

Indicators of Power

• Indicators of power are associated with questions of benefit, governance, and success, evaluating who gains from systems in place.

Corporate Dynamics and Monopoly Regulations

• The Sherman Antitrust Act addresses concerns regarding monopolies that acquire excessive political power.
• A staggering concentration of wealth is seen where just 500 companies generate half of the profits, sales, and ownership.
• Shared monopolies exist when four or fewer companies dominate over 50% of an industry.

Ownership and Interlock Structures

• Shared ownership involves co-ownership of a third entity, indicating interconnected financial interests.
• Direct interlocks, which involve board members from competing firms, are prohibited under the Clayton Act of 1914, highlighting regulatory attempts to prevent conflicts of interest.
• Indirect interlocks entail participation on boards of third-party companies, diversifying influence across sectors.

Strategic Alliances and Corporations

• Strategic alliances enable corporations to collaborate on product development, such as the creation of an iPhone, integrating resources for innovation.

Power Networks and Political Influence

• Power networks are established where affluent individuals financially support political candidates who align with their interests, facilitating legislative manipulation.
• Special interest groups exert considerable influence over decision-making processes and public policy, often skewing them in favor of the upper class.

Candidate Selection and Lobbying

• The candidate selection process incorporates campaign funding, notably impacted by the Citizens United ruling, magnifying financial influences in politics.
• Lobbying involves the hiring of lobbyists by various industries or front groups, with approximately 12,000 registered in Washington D.C., granting them access to key political figures and resources.

Think Tanks as Influencers

• Corporations utilize think tanks to funnel funds, producing "knowledge" that benefits corporate interests and influences public discourse and policy.