Can a oligarchy include representative democracy

Yes,

it is possible for an oligarchy to coexist with a representative democracy. In a representative democracy, citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. However, if a small and privileged group of individuals or entities holds a disproportionate amount of power and influence over the political process, it can lead to an oligarchy within the framework of a representative democracy.

In such a scenario, the concentration of power in the hands of a few may undermine the principles of equal representation and broad participation that are characteristic of a healthy representative democracy. The influence of the oligarchy may manifest in various ways, such as controlling key economic resources, dominating media outlets, or having a significant impact on the policymaking process.

It's important to note that the relationship between democracy and oligarchy can be complex, and different societies may exhibit varying degrees of both democratic and oligarchic characteristics. The challenge for a functioning democracy is to ensure that power is distributed fairly, institutions are accountable, and the voices of all citizens are considered in the decision-making process.