POWER AND ELITES IN THE INFORMATION SOCIETY

The aim of the article is the identification and analysis of the transformations in the political sphere, caused by humanity’s transition to the global information society. Systematic, historical, comparative methods and futurological approach were used for preparation of this material. Information and empirical base has been developed on the basis of scientific generalizations present in the research of domestic and foreign scientists. The study and comprehension of these materials allow to make the conclusion that significant changes will affect the political and social organizations of the society, principles of organization of power and governance of the society, and will be associated with the formation of new rules of mutual relations within the society. The article analyzes the information-networking structure of the forming society, discusses the forms of interaction between the new elite – the netocracy – and ordinary citizens. It is noted that within the new political system – plurarhy – democracy faces serious challenges that undermine the effective implementation of democratic principles. Prospects of development of democracy in conditions of virtualization of politics are discussed