Who is the Most Important to a Government: Lower, Middle, or Upper Class?

The question of who is the most important to a government is multifaceted and often depends on the nature and class origins of the ruling class. In today's context, the United States is often discussed in terms of its oligarchic nature—where a small, super-rich elite shapes not only policies but also the narrative of reality itself.

Oliverian Rule

The US is frequently referred to as an oligarchy, implying a system where the super-rich hold considerable power. This oligarchic structure influences reality itself, leading to the mistaken belief that there are no substantial welfare programs, despite their existence. This example underscores the significant sway financial elite wield in shaping public opinion and policy.

Class Dynamics in Governance

Understanding the class dynamics within a government helps in grasping the priorities and decision-making processes. Depending on the class from which the government emerges, different segments of society are prioritized:

If the government comes from the lower class: Lower classes are emphasized, leading to systems like communism or tyranny. In such cases, the government's policies focus on the welfare and interests of the lower class. If the government comes from the middle class: Middle classes are prioritized, as in democratic systems. These governments aim to ensure a balanced and equitable distribution of resources, enhancing social mobility and stability. If the government comes from the upper class: Upper classes dominate, leading to an oligarchic system. In such systems, the interests of the wealthy are paramount, often at the expense of the broader population. If the government comes from the intellectual class: Intellectuals are given significant weight, leading to aristocratic governance. Systems like the Tang dynasty and the Roman Trajan and Marcus Aurelius era often aligned governance with intellectual and moral principles.

Middle Class Influence on Governance

The middle class plays a pivotal role in governance, particularly in a well-functioning economy. A strong middle class contributes to a more dynamic and innovative upper class, benefiting society as a whole. When the middle class is non-existent or weak, the upper class often becomes predatory, ensuring that no benefits reach other social classes.

Current Examples

In Venezuela, for instance, the collapse of a robust middle class has led to political and economic chaos. Here, the upper class became more predatory, squeezing resources for personal gain rather than for the common good. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of a vibrant middle class in maintaining social stability and progress.

Government Structure and Class

Government is a complex system with many layers, from the presidency to local government. It includes members of Congress, Supreme Court justices, mayors of both rich and poor towns, governors, and state legislators. It is unrealistic to think that any government has a single, homogeneous view on what is most important. Instead, different segments of the upper class and middle class influence various aspects of governance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the ruling class determines who is the most important to a government. Oligarchic systems tend to prioritize the upper class, while democratic systems seek to balance the interests of all social classes. Understanding the class dynamics within a government is crucial for comprehending its priorities and policies.

Keywords: government class importance, oligarchy, middle class benefit, upper class rule