Yvan Assany (Université Paris Dauphine)

Non-Elites’ Network of Elites in Madagascar: Profiles and Potential Returns

Abstract : Individuals form two main types of social networks: homophilous, which connects similar individuals, and heterophilous, which links dissimilar ones in the social hierarchy. Homophilous networks are common and easily formed, and are usually beneficial to protect common resources like power. Heterophilous networks, though rarer and more effortful, could offer higher returns by notably connecting people with different social influences and resources. This potential is even greater when relationships include elites.
But how do non-elite individuals connect with elites in a poor and unequal economy? What types of returns can be expected? To answer these questions, this paper explores the profiles and potential returns of ties between non-elite and elite individuals in Madagascar, a country marked by high poverty and inequality. It mobilizes the « Pouvoir et Citoyens » 2015 nationally and sub-nationally representative survey, reporting 7,166 Malagasy adult citizens’ opinions and attitudes toward the State-Citizens relationships. Findings show that non-elites primarily connect with local elites, with factors like gender (being male), age, public employment, and education increasing the likelihood of these connections. Connections with National elites are specifically associated with higher incomes and landownership. This network also correlates with non-economic factors, like democratic satisfaction, higher voting rates, increased trust in local leaders, and decreased trust in judicial institutions. This study highlights the potential influence of these networks on economic outcomes and also on democratic attitudes, despite mixed results on institutional trust.