Political Parties, a Sociological Study of the Oligarchical Tendencies of Modern Democracy

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The principle of self-government through political parties, fundamental to democracy, is seen as a solution to nationality issues, as it embraces popular governance. While the significance of nationality is clear, many national questions in Western Europe could be addressed through this principle. However, challenges arise from geographical and strategic factors, such as defining natural and strategic frontiers. The principle falters where national identities are weak or confused. This work critically examines democracy, which Michels argues is in a precarious phase, making progress difficult. He categorizes the opposing tendencies to democracy into three areas: individual nature, political structure, and organizational nature. This edition, hailed as a "classic of modern social science," marks a pivotal study in political science, establishing the study of political parties as a distinct field after its 1910 publication. It remains essential reading for political scientists, sociologists, and historians today. Robert Michels is recognized as a founder of political sociology, authoring several influential works. Seymour Martin Lipset, a prominent sociologist, contributes to the discourse with his extensive writings on political and social policy.