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Interpreting The Concept Of Power Elites By C. Wright Mills

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Long Answer Albert Shultz explains the concept of interpretive scheme. The interpretive scheme is adopted by the speaker and the listener to help them understand and communicate signs to each other. In the case of the speaker, the individual will assume that the listener speaks his kind of language and carefully select words that work within the interpretive scheme of the listener’s. In that same exchange, the listener will assume that the speaker is using words that he/she will understand, and therefore, the listener will acknowledge that such and such things are being communicated to him. The interpretive scheme is a social relata that helps individuals communicate signs to each other so that they can understand both the objective and subjective …show more content…

Wright Mills discusses the concept of power elites. In the broader context, he refers to power as being inscribed to individuals based on their status in the world they exist. Their jobs, where they live and who they know all factor into this discourse of power, which is beyond their control but very much influences their behaviours and interactions with other individuals. However, Mills is clear to point out that for some, specifically men, they have greater control of power and can exercise more readily than others. These individuals are considered to be part of the power elites, and are in command of major hierarchies like corporations and the military. Moreover, existing at the pinnacle of this power pyramid known as the triangle of power(19 /2012, pg. ) also enables the sense of prestige where these individuals can play on their social status to exert influence over the ordinary individual through acquired or granted power. Nevertheless, memberships to higher circles do not have fixed or formal boundaries meaning that there is some mobility. However, the individuals that occupy these circles are usually similar, according to Mills. This similarity is based on common belief systems, social congeniality and coinciding interests, as Mills points

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