Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

plutocracies

Noun

/pluːˈtɒkrəsiːz/

Definition

Plutocracies refer to political systems or societies where power is held by the wealthy. It often implies a government in which the rich have significant control over decision-making and policy formation.

Examples

Many critics argue that modern democracies are increasingly becoming plutocracies, where money dictates political power.
In a plutocracy, laws may favor the interests of the wealthy over the needs of the general population.

Meaning

The term ‘plutocracy’ comes from the Greek words ‘ploutos’ meaning ‘wealth’ and ‘kratos’ meaning ‘power or rule’. Therefore, plutocracies are characterized by the influence of wealth on politics and governance.