The United States of America is often touted as a beacon of democracy, a shining example for the rest of the world to follow. However, there is growing evidence that this is not the case, and that in reality, the United States is an oligarchy, not a democracy.
An oligarchy is defined as a system of government where power is held by a small number of people, often the wealthy and influential elite. In the United States, this is becoming increasingly evident, as the wealthiest individuals and corporations wield an inordinate amount of power and influence over the political process.
One key factor contributing to this phenomenon is the role of money in politics. The Citizens united ruling in 2010 allowed corporations to pour unlimited amounts of money into political campaigns, and this has had a profound impact on the political process. Wealthy individuals and corporations now have a disproportionate influence over the outcome of elections, and politicians are often beholden to their financial interests, rather than the interests of their constituents.
Another factor is the influence of special interests and lobbying groups. These groups are often funded by the wealthy and powerful, and they use their resources to shape government policies and regulations in ways that benefit their interests. This leaves the average citizen without a voice, and undermines the principles of democracy.
In addition, the electoral college system in the United States also serves to reinforce the oligarchic nature of the government. This system, which was established in the Constitution, gives disproportionate weight to the smaller, rural states and dilutes the impact of the more heavily populated, urban states. This means that the views and interests of large segments of the population are often ignored, and that the outcomes of elections can be influenced by a small number of voters in key states.
Finally, the role of the media in shaping public opinion cannot be ignored. The media is largely controlled by a small number of corporations, and the information that is presented to the public is often filtered to reflect the interests of these corporations. This has a profound impact on the political process, as the public is often given a limited and biased perspective on important issues, and their views and opinions are shaped by these media outlets.
In conclusion, the evidence suggests that the United States is not a true democracy, but rather an oligarchy where power is held by a small, wealthy and influential elite. While the democratic principles upon which the country was founded still hold some relevance, they are increasingly being eroded by the influence of money, special interests, and the media. It is up to the citizens of the United States to take action and ensure that their government truly represents the interests of all, not just a select few.