What does the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" refer to?

The term "Iron Law of Oligarchy," coined by sociologist Robert Michels, refers to the phenomenon where organizations tend to develop a hierarchical structure over time, leading to a concentration of power among a small elite group. This concept indicates that regardless of how democratic an organization might be in its initial formation, it ultimately becomes dominated by those in leadership positions who maintain control over decision-making processes.

Option B captures this idea perfectly, as it highlights the self-perpetuating nature of power within organizations. Once individuals or a small group rises to power, they often implement systems and structures that ensure their continued dominance, thus making it challenging for others to gain influence or authority. This dynamic reinforces their control and can lead to stagnation or resistance to change, even in environments that may initially encourage broader participation.

The other options do not align with the core tenet of the "Iron Law of Oligarchy." The influence of external stakeholders, the need for constant innovation in leadership styles, and required collaboration among leaders do not specifically address the inherent tendency towards oligarchy within organizations, which is fundamentally about the internal distribution and consolidation of power, emphasizing how a leadership group can become insulated from the wider organization.