The Pluralism of Pluralism: An Anti-Theory?

In: Political studies, Band 38, Heft 2, S. 286-301

Abstract

It is noted that the concept of modern political pluralism has endured to be juxtaposed with a succession of alternatives -- elitism, totalitarianism, & corporatism. This longevity has something to do with its flexibility; as a concept, it has been underexplicit. Modern pluralism is not a simple development from earlier uses of that label; rather, it reflects the conclusions of empirical studies in the mid-twentieth century. In the work of R. A. Dahl, N. Polsby, D. B. Truman, & C. E. Lindbloom, the concept is not well-defined, but it is clear that they anticipated many of the later criticisms of pluralism. An attempt is made to construct a preliminary pluralist model from these various accounts. While the model is generally presented as being about competition (competitive pluralism), most of those using a pluralist perspective identify sectorization, privileged access to decision making, & bargaining between departments & client groups. This corporate pluralism model (or group subgovernment) is identified as a major departure from laissez-faire pluralism. The division within pluralism anticipated many of the concerns raised by the corporatist literature. There is little significant difference between sectoral or meso corporatism & corporate pluralism. Pluralism is more successful in countering other theories than in standing as an alternative. Modified AA