The sociological theory of elite

The article contains a study of views of the most eminent adherents to the theory of elite and an attempt at defining the (possibility of its application in social sciences. The emergence of that concept at the end of 19 century is related to names of Italians V. Pareto and G. Mosci. They defined a notion of elite though only in political categories omitting other spheres of social life, in particular the economic basis of a high social position of elite members. In the 20 century the theory of elite found many followers, especially in the English speaking countries. Observing a heterogenous character of modern societies, such {researchers as K. Mannheim, H. Dreitzel, S. Keller, specified several types of elites operating simultaneously in society (political, economic, army, artistic). The attempts were being made at defining a general elite of society, as in every sphere of human activity an elite group can be isolated (H. Lasswell, D. Boyd). At the same time some of scholars kept relating functioning of elites to the problem of political power (H. Lasswell, C. Mills). Various questions emerging from the theory of elite raise controversies. It is extremely difficult to find the definition of elite which would be adequate for societies at different level of developement. The author has also tried to present several critical conclusions on the presented concepts of elite. The theory of elite presents a different perspective of analysis from the classstrata analysis, facilitates better examination of a social structure, especially a sphere of political relations.Digitalizacja i deponowanie archiwalnych zeszytów RPEiS sfinansowane przez MNiSW w ramach realizacji umowy nr 541/P-DUN/201