Strategic Observatory on Rome: which ruling class for which project and for which economy (2001)

An important fact emerged from this survey is that the ruling class, both in Rome and nationally, has changed considerably over the last five to six years. After a period of lethargy in which it appeared to be stuck, the ruling class has evolved, demonstrating a sense of enterprise and a sense of the State, and thus a greater awareness of the role it plays. There has been a general increase in the level of professionalism and managerial skills. Moreover, the cultural level and ethical awareness have improved, possibly also through the inclusion of younger and more motivated staff. Greater attention is perceived towards local needs, in terms of services, economic development and international outreach. The most positive element is probably the willingness to engage in dialogue between the municipality, the province and the region, regardless of political preconceptions, which could produce important results for the area’ s development. In the first phase of the study, the concept of the ruling class was theoretically defined with reference to the Roman reality. Subsequently, the context in which the Roman ruling class is called upon to operate was described. Methodologically, the background analysis focused on the collection of secondary data and the examination of the most relevant opinions gathered through the consultation of press reviews and specialised bibliography of the last three years. The main body of the study involved conducting a series of interviews with a suitable number of privileged witnesses.