Sectoral Polyarchy

Abstract

In 1956 Dahl proposed that modern westernised democratic capitalist societies would ultimately evolve into a state of polyarchy, wherein interest groups, compensating for a lack of effective representation would ultimately subsume Government. Whilst Dahl postulated that this would happen at a state level, he was considering the phenomena from the perspective of social groups rather than from Government. Different sectors within a state are subject to different pressures, and consequently it is contended that some are closer to a transition to polyarchy than others. The defence sector is a case in point, and already exhibits many of the characteristics of polyarchy. This chapter will consider the reasons for this, its implications, and potential solution, focussing on issues of competition and risk. Given the UK defence sector unique position in relation to the United States and The European Union it will serve as the barometer for the polyarchic state in this discussion.