Elite Perceptions of the Poor: Reflections for a Comparative Research Project

Abstract

Elite Perceptions of the Poor: Reflections for a Comparative Research Proiect AE T his ~rticlc p~esents the ~hcorctica.l foundations for an ()ngoin~ resc:lrl~h proJect on elites and theIr perceptIons of poverty and poor people within their own societies. We arc addressing this topic for t,\\'o reasons. First, virtually nothing is known about such perceptions in nlOS( so,ictics, cspl-ci,llly in less developed countries where poverty is nlost serious and where our work is mainly focused. Second, the \vay in which clites pen:eivc and define poverty can powerfully affect social policy and the quality of life of the poor.

Elite theory

“…Elite theory also approaches the question of social development and modernization in both Western and non-Western contexts (e.g. Cardoso, 1964;de Swaan et al, 2000;Lipset and Solari, 1967;López, 2013;Reis and Moore, 2005).…”

“…Furthermore, elite theorists have incorporated important features of social class theory into elite theory (e.g. de Swaan 1988de Swaan , 2005Domhoff, 2009Domhoff, [1967Mills, 1956;Reis and Moore, 2005).…”

“…Hoffmann-Lange, 2010;Lijphart, 1969;Verba and Orren, 1985;Verba et al, 1987) or rational choice modeling (e.g. de Swaan, 1988de Swaan, , 2005 are often understated.…”

Poverty in the Eyes of Brazilian Elites

“…If these three conditions are met, de Swaan argues, then it is possible to say that the elite are socially conscious (de Swaan et al 2000).…”

“…It does imply that the problem of poverty is perceived as one that creates negative externalities, it is the elites' business, and can realistically be tackled. In other words, it entails (a) a belief in social interdependence, (b) a sense of responsibility, and (c) an assessment that it is possible to change the status quo and it is worth acting accordingly (de Swaan et al 2000).…”