Robert wrote:PeterG wrote:As far as I can tell, this talk of "elites" amounts to nothing more than an ad hominem argument. (That's right, I said something in Latin. Deal with it.
) It is irrelevant for distinguishing truth from falsehood and right from wrong.
But if we understand how others perceive us, at least it gives us the information, if we want to work at better relationships.
I guarantee you I am perceived as an elite in some places. Very, few, but some.
I think you both have made good points here:
Peter: I agree, the label "Elite" seems like a bit of a strawman - an insult used against someone you want to tear down or delegitimize. In politics, it has no real ideological definition because it is a term used by all political groups, sometimes about the other party & sometimes about their own. I think it means simply "a person who is not really one of us, who has unearned power/privilege, and who thinks they are better than us." Pick your target, and slap that label on:
- Conservatives label liberal celebrities "elite."
Liberals label business people "elite."
Bernie labeled Hillary "elite".
Elizabeth Warren labels wall-street "elite".
The alt-right labels moderate-republicans (like Romney, the Bushes, McCain) "elites".
The blue collar label the white collar elite.
The less formally educated label the more formally educated elite.
etc., etc., etc.
It is usually an "us" vs "them" insult that I find unhelpful. Funny...In sports it is a compliment. In politics it is a put-down.
Robert: Your encouragement to be thoughtful about how we contribute to perceptions that elevate us above others in an important one - What do we do to send a messages of superiority (either intentionally or unintentionally)? Do people, regardless of station in life, feel honored and affirmed as they relate to us? I think empathy is a key factor here - can we place ourselves in someone else shoes enough to really understand where they are coming from.
I'm sure I have worn the "elite" label often over the years - probably today even on this forum...and that's OK.
We can't always choose the box people put us in. The important question for me is, how have I contributed to the perception of superiority? THAT I can do something about.
Your encouragement reminds me of some of the teachings of the Apostle James.