Meaning: The quote comes from Jean-Francois Lyotard, a French philosopher known for his work on postmodernism and the nature of knowledge in contemporary society. In this quote, Lyotard is describing a shift in the composition of the ruling class, suggesting that it is no longer dominated by the traditional political elite but has become a composite layer consisting of corporate leaders, high-level administrators, and heads of major professional, labor, political, and religious organizations.

This statement reflects a critical perspective on the changing dynamics of power and influence in modern societies. The traditional political class, which historically held the most significant sway over governance and decision-making, is being replaced or supplemented by individuals from a diverse range of sectors and organizations. Lyotard's choice of the term "composite layer" suggests a complex and multifaceted structure, indicating that power and influence are now distributed across a broader spectrum of social, economic, and institutional domains.

One of the key implications of this quote is the idea that the traditional boundaries of political authority and decision-making have become blurred or expanded. The inclusion of corporate leaders, high-level administrators, and heads of various organizations in the composite layer of the ruling class suggests that non-governmental entities and actors now play a significant role in shaping policies and agendas. This shift challenges conventional notions of political power and highlights the interconnectedness of various spheres of influence in contemporary society.

The concept of a composite ruling class also raises questions about the nature of democracy and representation. If power is increasingly concentrated among a diverse set of actors, how does this impact the ability of ordinary citizens to influence decision-making processes? Are these new power structures accountable and transparent to the public, or do they operate in ways that are less visible and accessible to democratic scrutiny? These are important considerations for understanding the evolving dynamics of governance and leadership in modern societies.

Furthermore, Lyotard's emphasis on the inclusion of leaders from professional, labor, political, and religious organizations underscores the idea that power is not solely concentrated within the economic or political spheres. The influence of religious institutions, labor unions, and other societal organizations in the composite ruling class suggests a broader social and cultural dimension to contemporary governance. This challenges traditional conceptions of power as solely residing within formal political institutions and highlights the diverse sources of influence that shape decision-making processes.

In conclusion, Jean-Francois Lyotard's quote about the composite layer of the ruling class offers a thought-provoking perspective on the changing dynamics of power and influence in modern societies. By highlighting the inclusion of leaders from corporate, administrative, professional, labor, political, and religious organizations, the quote raises important questions about the nature of contemporary governance, representation, and democracy. It invites critical reflection on the evolving structures of power and the complex interplay of actors and institutions that shape the political landscape in the present day.