Definition: The term "aristocracy" refers to a system in which individuals are primarily determined by their social status, rather than their individual merits or abilities. This form of governance was prevalent in ancient Greek society during the time when the first written records were written. In this system, the ruling class (the aristocracy) held significant political and economic power over the common people. The term "aristocracy" also encompasses a variety of other forms, including monarchy, democracy, or even aristocratic rule.