The Few

In our modern democracies, in fact the people do not rule. Who does? This is a thoughtful, playful, yet serious exploration conducted by two friends who note that there are advantages to aristocracy as well as many drawbacks. The author shows that democrats can benefit from thoughtful consideration of their opposite model.

Much is made of the power of the moneyed few. Are they an aristocracy, in fact? Or perhaps we live under a plutocratic regime? This book examines various possibilities for how to think of ourselves and the world we inhabit.

The Few is not entitled On Aristocracy because the author and characters are unsure that we should limit the discussion to that. Fewness is a concept that may transcend the political. It motivates some people, impelling them to strive to achieve. But achieve what? Do we all want something more? The Few explores what more there might be. It explores the longing to be elite. This question runs in the background throughout the dialogue.