A more pluralistic and less monolithic version of the "Global Elites" theory. It suggests the world is shaped by the covert competition and occasional collaboration of multiple hidden power groups: international finance networks, old aristocratic bloodlines, secret societies (like Skull and Bones), organized crime syndicates, and ideological cults. The world stage is their chessboard, and nations are their pieces.
Theory of Secret Power Groups Example: In this Theory, the rise of a tech mogul might be attributed not to genius, but to backing from a Secret Power Group of Silicon Valley venture capitalists with ties to intelligence agencies, using him as a proxy to control data and social networks, while a rival group of old-money industrialists tries to sabotage him.
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal February 4, 2026
Get the Theory of Secret Power Groups mug.A mainstream sociological concept stating that in any complex society, power is not held by a single entity (the state) or the masses, but is contested and exercised by a plurality of competing groups: corporations, unions, professional associations, NGOs, media conglomerates, and religious institutions. Politics is the process of temporary alliances and conflicts between these groups. It’s pluralism, but where the playing field is not level and some groups have vastly more resources.
Example: Environmental policy in a country is not set just by the government. According to the Theory of Power Groups, it's the outcome of a brutal lobbying war between the fossil fuel industry group, the renewable energy trade association, environmental NGOs, and utility unions, each pulling on different levers of power within the legislature, courts, and media.
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal February 4, 2026
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