Robert Michels

Robert Michels was a German sociologist known for his theory called the "Iron Law of Oligarchy." This concept explains that in large organizations or political systems, power naturally concentrates in the hands of a small elite or leadership group. Despite organizations’ democratic ideals, they tend to become centralized and hierarchical over time, making true democracy difficult to sustain. Michels’ work highlights the tendency for organizational staff to gain authority, often leading to less participatory decision-making among members. His insights are influential in understanding how power dynamics operate in political, social, and organizational structures.