Whatever you want to call the current form of government in western societies, our countries are still ruled by the elite for their own benefit.  That is how it has been, and how it will likely continue to be.<p>Democratic institutions and transparency, however, provide an important safety valve for the smooth functioning of society.  They are important tools to keep the elites in check.  This is important for elites and for everyone else!<p>Elites in other times and places tend to get a little full of themselves after a while.  &quot;Divine mandate&quot; and all that.  They start to take their position for granted, and become more and more brazen in the pursuit of their own (oftentimes stupid) self-interests.  When things get too far out of whack, a revolution erupts, which kills a lot of people and destroys a lot of wealth.  This is bad for every class, rich and poor.<p>Transparency helps to curb the behavior of the elites, steering them away from the most egregious pursuits.  Democratic institutions (though still controlled by the elites) allow society to adapt to changing times more easily, and allow through the will of the people to some extent.<p>Elites should understand (though some apparently don&#x27;t) that a stable society benefits them as much as anyone.  What good is your wealth if you have to spend a lot of it on security?  The stress isn&#x27;t worth it.