Majoritarianism
This is a term used when making reference to a form of democracy in which decisions are arrived at once a simple majority achieved by a certain group. It also refers to a political philosophy that bestows societal primacy to a section of the population. This allows them to make essential decisions.
Elite Theory
This hypothesis seeks to explain supremacy relationships in the modern society. It states that minorities often hold on to reigns of power, due to their influence on policy planning networks and the economy. This power is different with that availed through democratic procedures. It was proposed to counter Marxism by denouncing a possibility of having classless societies.
Pluralism
Many lay persons would define pluralism to infer the recognition of variety. Advocates of present day democracy argue that pluralism serves to protect interests of the citizens. This explains the harmonious coexistence of varied lifestyles, interests and convictions. As a result, members are constantly required to participate in negotiations, which will help them tolerate the differences exhibited by each other. Politically, this concept implies a belief that decisions are arrived at by governments although, other institutions may wield their influence using the resources they command (Domhoff, 2005).
Applying the concepts to the American political system
Pluralist ideologies are fulfilled in the American political setup, since instruments of power extensively devolved. The existences of federal and state governments devolve political authority to different institutions, creating various hubs of authority. This decentralization implies majoritarian ideals are not fulfilled by this system of governance. The elite theory is also applicable to the American setting. This is because a majority of persons holding crucial positions have connections with big organizations. Most of them are tapped up by political organizations to serve as lobbyists, or take up advisory positions in government and within their political parties (Janda, 2006).
Personal description of the American system
It is noteworthy, that elements of elitism and pluralism can be pointed out within the American political and governance system. This implies that those perpetrating claim to the contrary are spreading falsehood. Studies reveal that majoritarianism is the only concept of leadership which has not been within the American setting.
Foremost, America is a cosmopolitan society; since citizens hail from different areas of the globe. It follows that these persons have to maintain peace in their interactions with each other and accommodate different cultures observed by different people. The existence of different state governments provides another proof of this. While they operate semi autonomously from the federal government, they have complete autonomy from one another. An example is the fact that persons are required to register as residents of one state, where all their legal documents will be issued. Once registered, they are barred from working in other states without certification from the relevant bodies or taking certain exams to prove their competence. This shows an example of the experiences persons undergo due to pluralism.
Lobbyists have been part of the American governance system since time immemorial. They also play a crucial role in proposing and writing bills that have repercussions on the lives of ordinary citizens. Elitism comes into play in this case, since citizens put a government in place, which then acts at the behest of few individuals at the capital. Notable business personalities, people in positions of influence and other high ranking individuals have also had their way with issues on several occasions, by negotiating for favors from government and issuing others in return. For example, banking executives may force the government to raise or lower taxes, and other tariffs, depending on the amounts they charge as levies (Terrillon, 2008).
References
Domhoff, G. (2005). Alternative Theoretical Views. University of California at Santa Cruz. Web.
Janda, K. (2006). Pluralism and Democracy. America.gov. Web.
Terrillon, S. (2008). American Elitism. Web.