The Influence of Aristocrats in British Society on the Rise, Study Finds
A new study has revealed that aristocrats have become increasingly influential in British society over the past 150 years, with hereditary peers now 292 times more likely than non-aristocrats to be listed in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography.
Researchers from London South Bank University analyzed entries in the reference book, which profiles over 60,000 people who have significantly shaped British life. They found that the influence of hereditary peers has grown compared to the 19th century, when they were 221 times more likely to be featured.
The study looked at the deaths of hereditary peers and non-aristocrats aged 35 and older between 2008-18 and 1858-1867, respectively. Recent additions to the National Biography include notable figures such as Lydia Hayward, a leading scriptwriter in the British film industry, and George King, a sailor who fought in the Battle of Trafalgar.
Dr Julien Morton, one of the researchers, noted that the findings challenge the common belief that the British aristocracy has declined in wealth, power, and status. Instead, the study suggests that aristocrats have seen an increase in their relative advantage compared to the general population.
The researchers pointed out that entries in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography are earned based on notable achievements, indicating the influence of aristocrats is not automatic. Dr Morton highlighted the importance of using the reference book as a measure of elite status over time.
Dr Matthew Bond, another researcher, speculated that the increase in aristocratic influence could be attributed to their historical connections to political power or old boys’ networks. He also suggested that aristocrats may have shifted their focus to less visible forms of power, such as wealth and status, in response to changes in society.
The study sheds light on the evolving role of aristocrats in British society and raises questions about the sources of their influence in the modern era.