Between unity and fragmentation are the intermediate patterns of elite
compromise and elite polarization. In these patterns, elites are neither
united in one single group nor fragmented into many. Although issues
divide them, these issues are few and do not lead to fragmentation. At
the same time, elite disagreement tends to be deeper and often involves
identity clashes. Compromise means significant concessions in matters of
ideology, organization, and material interests. Compromise often entails
more than one step or decision. Initial compromises may be followed by
more significant ones as certain elites collaborate on the common project
of state formation, while other groups are marginalized. Compromise
therefore is a process of forming a central bloc and eliminating extremes.
In the same vein, polarization involves more than one step and means
not simply a rejection of compromise by elites but the process of forming
two or more (but not too many) opposing extremes and the elimination
of moderate political options.