Niklas Altermark

The Elites of Civil Society: A Comparative Analysis presents the first book-length analysis of the top echelons in civil society from an elite perspective. Combining elite studies with civil society research, the book analyses civil society elite structures in four countries – Italy, Poland, Sweden, and the UK. Using a theoretical framework focusing on the vertical stratification in the sector and the horizontal integration between elite groups, three patterns of elitisation emerge. The UK is characterised by a high level of elite stratification and a high level of integration with other elite groups. On the opposite side of the spectrum, we find Poland with low levels of both stratification and integration. Italy and Sweden come out with moderate levels in both dimensions. These patterns are analysed with regards to the different roles and functions the sector has served in each country. A key finding of the book is that elite stratification and integration are strongly related both at country and individual level. The higher up the hierarchies in civil society leaders find themselves, the more likely they are to have close contacts with other elite groups. The book also examines whether elite stratification and integration are linked to the attitudes and values held by leaders. The findings presented in the book ties into debates about power concentration and equal opportunities in civil society. With growing expectations that civil society contributes to solving global challenges, this book offers a timely investigation into the internal power structures of civil society.