Tuesday, April 15, 2008

He's an elitist in the "nice" way

This is in response to Jon's recent blog and the ensuing comments. Courtesy of Encarta Dctionary by way of Microsoft Word:

e·lit·ism
noun
Definition:

1. belief in concept of superiority: the belief that some people or things are inherently superior to others and deserve preeminence, preferential treatment, or higher rewards because of their superiority
2. belief in control by small group: the belief that government or control should be in the hands of a small group of privileged, wealthy, or intelligent people, or the active promotion of such a system
3. control by small group: government or control by a small, specially qualified, or privileged group
e·lit·ist noun, adjective

I'm putting all presidential candidates (Obama included) in category #1 with one exception: the word inherently. I don't (necessarily) think they believe themselves "inherently" superior, but obviously they feel they deserve high rewards and preeminence or they would not seek the office of U.S. President. Anyone who takes a run at the presidency has a more-than-healthy level of grandeur.

I think we're all tired of the ad hominem attacks. Those of us who don't favor Clinton or Obama have the added frustration of hearing the supporters on either side blame the other candidate. Will someone of authority in the Democratic Party please stop the car, turn around and say, "You two knock it off or I'm going to turn this car around and no one gets to be President!"

1 comment:

Nate said...

"I know ‘elite’ is a bad word in politics, and you want to go bowling and throw back a few beers, but the job you’re applying for? If you get it and it goes well? They might carve your head into a mountain. If you don’t actually think you’re better than us, then what the (bleep) are you doing?!?"

-Jon Stewart

Say he demeans the civil rights struggle, say he's a crappy bowler, say he's an "elitist." Fine. But he's not a snob, and I don't believe he looks down at "us."