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Surely the elves are feudal rather than communist. Mirkwood and Lorien are ruled by lords who are or are the descendants of colonists of "superior" races. Imladris is Elrond's own household. The clothing and food he provides to the company seems a personal gift. He himself is not an elected figure but the heir of the High Kings of the Noldor. Cirdan may have earned his authority as lord of the residual community at Mithlond but that was surely a very small community serving a specific purpose.
We know in Mirkwood some things are reserved for the King and court, they trade. It may be benevolent but it is still feudal.
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“But Finrod walks with Finarfin his father beneath the trees in Eldamar.”
Christopher Tolkien, Requiescat in pace
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