ety. This group rises to hold positions of leadership in all relevant parts of society, especially those of politics and industry. The Elite theorists suggest that this group is tightly knit and that they use their links through private schools, frequent social interaction business ties to promote each other to the top positions in business, government, civic organizations, educational and cultural establishments and the mass media. Even though these individuals constitute a close-knit group, they are not part of a conspiracy that secretly manipulates events in their own selfish interest. For the most part, the elite respects civil rights and freedoms, follows established laws, and operates openly and peacefully. It is not a dictatorship; it does not rely on terror, a secret police, or midnight arrests to get its way. Nor is its membership closed, although many members have enjoyed a head start in life through being born into prominent families. As Britain clearly shows the elites are quite ready to accept new blood. Those who work hard, enjoy good luck, and demonstrate a willingness to adopt elite values do find it possible to work into higher circles from below. The Elite does not derive its power from repression or inheritance, so from where does its strength come? Basically it comes from control of the highest positions in the
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