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Rethinking Elites: Networks, Space, and Local Politics

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  • M Woods

    (Institute of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, Aberystwyth SY23 3DB, Wales)

Abstract

Recent years have witnessed a revival of interest in researching elite groups; however the term ‘elite’ has remained largely untheorised and unproblematised in much of the resulting literature. I attempt to question what is meant by the term ‘elite’, how the term may be given a deeper conceptual relevance, and what the consequences of this might be for the study of elites. Through a critical review of conventional elite theory, and a discussion of concepts of society and power, three elements of elite definition are identified, focusing on access to resources, networking, and discursive construction. These are then illustrated with reference to local political elites in Somerset. I discuss the potential for a distinctively geographical contribution to the study of elites, through an exploration of the places and spaces in which elites are formed and interact.

Suggested Citation

  • M Woods, 1998. "Rethinking Elites: Networks, Space, and Local Politics," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 30(12), pages 2101-2119, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:30:y:1998:i:12:p:2101-2119
    DOI: 10.1068/a302101
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Allan Cochrane & Jamie Peck & Adam Tickell, 1996. "Manchester Plays Games: Exploring the Local Politics of Globalisation," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 33(8), pages 1319-1336, October.
    2. Alexander Duka, 1997. "Transformation of Local Power Elites: the Institutionalization of Social Movements in St Petersburg," International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 21(3), pages 430-444, September.
    3. J V Beaverstock, 1991. "Skilled International Migration: An Analysis of the Geography of International Secondments within Large Accountancy Firms," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 23(8), pages 1133-1146, August.
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