Short Answer 
Oligarchs constitute a powerful elite that influences governance and enacts laws primarily to protect their interests, often undermining societal welfare. They implement legislative measures such as protecting property rights and reducing tax burdens, which reinforce social hierarchies that favor their wealth, a trend evident throughout history.
Step 1: Understanding the Role of Oligarchs
Oligarchs are part of a small, elite ruling class that holds significant power and influence over governance. Their primary focus is to protect and enhance their own interests, often at the expense of broader societal welfare. This can lead to a range of policies designed to maintain their dominance and wealth.
Step 2: Legislative Actions Favoring the Elite
The laws enacted by oligarchs typically aim to support their wealth and social status through various means. These legislative actions often include:
- Protecting Property Rights: Laws that safeguard the properties and investments of the elite.
- Reducing Tax Burdens: Tax legislation designed to lower the liabilities of wealthy individuals and businesses.
- Maintaining Social Hierarchies: Policies that uphold the existing social structures that benefit the oligarchs.
Step 3: Historical Context and Modern Implications
This pattern of favoring the wealthy can be traced throughout history, seen in ancient civilizations and modern societies alike. Historical examples include:
- The Roman patricians whose laws favored the elite.
- The aristocrats within the Code of Hammurabi.
- Contemporary legislation that benefits wealthy individuals, such as some practices from the Republican-led policies of the 1920s.
While there have been efforts to address inequality, oligarchs generally shape laws to perpetuate their wealth and power.