America's Counterfeit Democracy: Rule of the Power Elite

The American Political System was designed using the ideas of the Enlightenment, including individual rights and a voice in government action. The founders sought a balance between the knowledge of the ruling class and the will of the people.

In the past few decades, powerful elites have taken control of the federal government and used it to achieve their objectives: expanding their wealth and keeping America stable. Today, the public has no power or way to influence government action.

In the past, the American government exhibited the behavior of a balanced democracy: government accountability, civil engagement, political participation, and individual freedom. Today, in this postmodern age, control by elites has expanded and compromised the operation of our federal government.

Wealthy families working with large corporations increased their influence over the federal government. They began to exhibit authoritarian tendencies and use media influence to create political oppression. The political rights of the public were discarded to achieve elite objectives. Today, the elites employ the major media companies to influence public opinion. Government transparency is non-existent, and the elites employ lobbyists to influence government action. Voting rights have been compromised by elite selection and funding of candidates.

The American public is left with no alternative to activism. Elite priorities block the people’s wish for equality, so they must change their voting behavior to make progress.