I've had cause this morning to ponder the difference between "elite" and "elitist".
In my way of thinking, "elite" means the best of the best, a rank and title to which all can aspire and even attain by dint of hard work and discipline, and by following the rules laid down for the particular elitism adhering to whatever elite group we're talking about -- one of which is to be proud of their elitism yet humble about their achievement. E.g., "elite unit", "elite cadre", "they're the elite of the bunch". See: Navy Seals, Army Rangers, SAS, etc.
Whereas "elitist" means a bunch of poseurs who claim to be the best of the best, whether they are or not, and who freeze out people they don't like, regardless of their demonstrated level of elitism, which may actually be higher than that of the elitists who don't like them. E.g., "elitist shit", "elitist bastard". See: Just about any left-wing "progressive" bunch of fascists, e.g., the Democrat Party.
Am I wrong?
Comments (3)
No, you are exactly correct.
Really smart people don't have to prove it.
My doctor knows far more about medicine than I ever will. My lawyer friend whom I ask for legal advice knows far more about the law than I ever will.
Both certain know more about their professional area of expertise than I do. They might actually be smarter than I am. However they are both capable of conveying their opinions and demonstrating their knowledge without having to prove they are smarter.
Posted by The Rich Wasp | August 13, 2008 9:50 AM
Posted on August 13, 2008 09:50
I think it's a sign of the WJB populist streak in America that "elitist" is considered an epithet. I take it as a compliment... ;)
Posted by Tam | August 18, 2008 3:02 PM
Posted on August 18, 2008 15:02
I understand what you mean, Tam.
Unfortunately, like "liberal", "elitist" is one of those good old words that the Left has managed to redefine to mean the opposite of what it used to mean.
But then populist parties are always led by people who think they're better than the great unwashed. Otherwise they wouldn't be populists.
Posted by Nathan Brindle | August 18, 2008 5:07 PM
Posted on August 18, 2008 17:07