The concept of 'circulation of elites' is a foundational idea in elite theory, primarily developed by Italian sociologists Vilfredo Pareto and Gaetano Mosca. It posits that societies are always governed by a minority, an 'elite,' and that social change often involves the replacement of one elite group by another, rather than the elimination of elite rule itself.

Core Tenets of the Theory:

1. Inevitability of Elite Rule: Both Pareto and Mosca believed that in any society, a small, organized minority will always rule over the unorganized majority. This is due to the inherent differences in human capabilities, organizational skills, and access to resources.
2. Elites are Not Static: While elite rule is constant, the composition of the elite is not. Elites are not permanent and are subject to decline and replacement. This process of replacement is what is termed 'circulation of elites.'
3. Pareto's Perspective – Lions and Foxes:
   • Pareto categorized elites based on psychological traits, specifically 'residues' (fundamental human sentiments). He identified two main types of governing elites:
     • Lions: Characterized by force, conservatism, and a preference for direct action and tradition. They are good at maintaining order and using coercion.
     • Foxes: Characterized by cunning, innovation, manipulation, and a preference for indirect action and persuasion. They are adept at adapting to change and using diplomacy.
   • Pareto argued that a stable society requires a balance of both types. When one type becomes dominant to the exclusion of the other, the elite becomes unbalanced and vulnerable. For example, an elite of 'lions' might become too rigid and unable to adapt, leading to its overthrow by a more cunning 'fox' counter-elite.
   • Circulation occurs when the ruling elite fails to assimilate new individuals with the necessary qualities (e.g., 'foxes' when 'lions' are needed, or vice-versa) or when the ruling elite degenerates, becoming less capable or losing its 'residues' for governance. A new elite, often from the non-elite or a counter-elite, then rises to power.
4. Mosca's Perspective – The Political Formula:
   • Mosca focused more on the organizational capacity of the elite. He argued that the ruling class (political elite) maintains its power not just through force, but also through a 'political formula' – a set of doctrines, beliefs, or legitimizing principles (e.g., divine right, democracy, ideology) that justify its rule and gain the consent of the masses.
   • Circulation, for Mosca, happens when the existing political formula loses its legitimacy, or when new social forces (e.g., economic classes, intellectual groups) emerge with a more compelling political formula and superior organizational skills, challenging the old elite.

Mechanisms and Implications:

• Social Mobility: The circulation of elites can occur through gradual social mobility, where talented individuals from lower strata are assimilated into the existing elite, or through more abrupt, revolutionary changes where an entirely new group seizes power.
• Elite Degeneration: Elites can become complacent, lose their vitality, or become detached from the needs of society, making them susceptible to being replaced.
• Counter-Elites: Disgruntled or ambitious individuals and groups outside the ruling elite form 'counter-elites' that challenge the existing power structure.
• Historical Explanation: The theory provides a framework for understanding historical shifts in power, revolutions, and the rise and fall of political regimes, suggesting that while the form of government may change, the fundamental dynamic of elite rule persists.

In essence, the circulation of elites highlights the dynamic nature of power within societies, emphasizing that while the 'many' may aspire to rule, it is always the 'few' who ultimately govern, and the process of governance involves a continuous struggle and replacement among these elite groups.