Elite Capture and Societal Inequality

Josiah Ober discusses two key societal issues: elite capture and economic inequality, both relevant in ancient Athens and today. He explains how elite capture leads to political power concentration, making democratic processes symbolic. Economic inequality exacerbates political inequality, with wealth dictating influence. Ober argues that these issues challenge democratic values, as wealth should not equate to societal worth or influence.

What are the two fundamental societal concerns discussed by Josiah Ober?

• Elite capture and economic inequality

• Climate change and technological advancement

• Urbanization and globalization

• Healthcare and education

How does elite capture affect political power according to the discussion?

• It distributes power equally

• It democratizes political power

• It centralizes power among a few elites

• It eliminates political power

What is a potential consequence of elite capture as mentioned in the video?

• Enhanced economic growth

• Increased public participation

• Improved social equality

• Decreased influence of ordinary citizens

What does the video suggest about the relationship between wealth and influence?

• Wealth decreases influence

• Influence is independent of wealth

• Wealth directly correlates with influence

• Wealth has no impact on influence

How does the video describe the societal reaction to economic inequality?

• Acceptance and indifference

• Visceral rejection of inequality

• Celebration of wealth disparity

• Complete ignorance of the issue