Applying the premise of the book to the major political parties, or in fact to the nation as a whole, would be interesting.

By Tom Ehrenfeld, Globe Correspondent, 1/18/2004

Who Really Matters:
The Core Group Theory of Power, Privilege, and Success
by Art Kleiner
Currency/Doubleday, $29.95

In his new book, business thinker Art Kleiner gets to the heart of what makes organizations tick with one simple question: Who is "in"?

Such a query -- and its follow-up question of "Who is out?" -- identifies one of the most powerful dynamics of corporate life. According to Kleiner, "In every company, agency, institution, and enterprise, there is some Core Group of key people -- the `people who really matter.' Every organization is continually acting to fulfill the perceived needs and priorities of its Core Group."

Set aside mission statements and audacious goals. Companies exist to serve the financial and psychological needs of the chosen few. Kleiner argues that power resides not in the formal structures and flow charts of an organization but in this rarely identified Core Group. These members receive lavish salaries, comfortable perks, and recognition, as well as a life free of such complications as having to book travel arrangements or deal with personal details.

All other organization men and women are what Kleiner calls "employees of mutual consent" -- people who act on the perceived needs of the Core Group, whether they do so directly or down the chain of command. While these individuals can achieve financial security and even personal fulfillment, they never enjoy the perks and privileges of the insiders.