"People live with the illusion that we have a democratic system, but it's only the outward form of one. In reality we live in a plutocracy, a government of the rich"

Jose Saramago's quote reviews the shallow democracy that exists in many societies, recommending that while systems may outwardly appear democratic, they are fundamentally managed by a plutocracy, indicating the rich and elite hold the real power. This sentiment, common in various socio-political critiques, reflects a disillusionment with systems that purport to enable equivalent participation for all citizens.

Saramago is essentially arguing that what lots of perceive as a democracy is merely a facade. This illusion is preserved since democratic procedures such as ballot, representation, and public responsibility exist. Nevertheless, these processes are eclipsed by the influence wielded by the wealthy, who have the methods to shape policy and governance to serve their interests. In such a scenario, the socioeconomic elites exert influence through lobbying, campaign financing, ownership, or control of mass media and through networks of power that go beyond the typical democratic checks and balances.

The essence of Saramago's critique depends on the characteristics of power and who really holds it. In an operating democracy, power lives with the populace, who effectively determine policy and management through fair and equitable means. However, in a plutocracy, wealth equates directly into impact, causing policies that favor the prosperous at the expenditure of the more comprehensive population. This combination of economic and political power can alter governance to perpetuate inequality, focusing wealth and impact in fewer hands.

Saramago invites readers to question and critically evaluate the institutions they think about democratic. This vital point of view motivates exploration into how democratic processes can be manipulated or controlled by wealthy interests, causing systemic inequality and disenfranchisement. Ultimately, Saramago's words require watchfulness versus complacency in democratic structures and an advising to work towards authentic egalitarian governance where impact is not determined by wealth.