Eliittikäsite

Eliittikäsite is a Finnish term that translates literally to “elite concept.” In academic discourse it refers to theories or frameworks that examine the nature, structure, and influence of elite groups within society. The concept is rooted in the broader field of elite theory, which emerged in the mid‑20th century with scholars such as Vilfredo Pareto, Gaetano Mosca, and Robert Michels. These theorists argued that a small, cohesive group of individuals typically holds disproportionate power over political, economic, and cultural institutions.

In Finnish usage, an élite käsite is often discussed in the context of democratic governance, where it raises questions about representation, legitimacy, and social mobility. Critics of the concept warn that it can be used to justify the concentration of power, whereas supporters see it as a necessary analytical tool to understand how decisions are made in complex societies. The term also appears in studies of media, corporate leadership, and education, where elites are identified by access to resources, networks, and symbolic capital.

Modern scholarship has diversified the elite notion to include "entrepreneurial elites," "cultural elites," and "digital elites," acknowledging that elite status can derive from technological innovation or cultural influence. The concept remains central in discussions about inequality, policy design, and the mechanisms through which social order is maintained.