The Elite of Knowledge in Modern Society: Intellectuals, Scientists and Professionals

Abstract

One of the most important events in contemporary societies is the emergence and consolidation of new elites whose importance in the conduct of national and international issues is steadily rising. The force that has each of these elites depends directly on the growing impact of advanced knowledge in almost all social activity, and fusion of this knowledge with political power (Gyarmati 1984: 17). The scientific and technological knowledge to guide the destiny of contemporary societies, are acquired only after years of formal studies of complex nature and on specialized institutions. Under this premise, the article provides an historical overview of the processes of construction, consolidation and transformation of modern knowledge and practice.