This dissertation examines the global elite clubs, focusing on the Bilderberg Group, a transatlantic forum. It challenges both paranoid and benign views of such groups. Theoretically, it underscores the importance of neo-Marxism and supports the idea of a transnational capitalist class (TCC), particularly a Euro-Atlantic TCC, with Europe being the most cohesive faction. Empirically, it utilizes data from the Bilderberg Group's official website and compiles new datasets on post-Cold War Bilderberg conferences, offering insights into attendees and discussion topics. The research suggests that while the Bilderberg Group remains influential, its power is waning, as evidenced by events like Brexit and the failure of TTIP. The study also explores the idea that attending Bilderberg meetings can boost political careers, noting many attendees later held significant political roles. Lastly, the dissertation observes that while the Bilderberg Group is no longer a media taboo, only a few outlets, like The Guardian, consistently cover its meetings.
Dissertation Abstract Summary:
This dissertation examines the global elite clubs, focusing on the Bilderberg Group, a transatlantic forum. It challenges both paranoid and benign views of such groups. Theoretically, it underscores the importance of neo-Marxism and supports the idea of a transnational capitalist class (TCC), particularly a Euro-Atlantic TCC, with Europe being the most cohesive faction. Empirically, it utilizes data from the Bilderberg Group's official website and compiles new datasets on post-Cold War Bilderberg conferences, offering insights into attendees and discussion topics. The research suggests that while the Bilderberg Group remains influential, its power is waning, as evidenced by events like Brexit and the failure of TTIP. The study also explores the idea that attending Bilderberg meetings can boost political careers, noting many attendees later held significant political roles. Lastly, the dissertation observes that while the Bilderberg Group is no longer a media taboo, only a few outlets, like The Guardian, consistently cover its meetings.