“Elitism” is a term that gets used a lot in news media as an accusation towards academics, politicians, and wealthy entrepreneurs.  It is also sometimes used by social activists who believe that a privileged group is out of touch with the lifestyles, desires, values, and struggles of a disadvantaged group. 

There are various genres of elitism, but they all have on thing in common. Elitism is the view that a select group of people have the authority to dictate what is valuable, important, or worthwhile. This select group is known as the “elite”.  They hold authority because they have a special quality: class, intelligence, skills, wealth, or experience.  Other people don’t have this special quality, and therefore are deemed unworthy to dictate what is valuable, important, and worthwhile.

But wait – isn’t everyone equal?  Doesn’t equality mean that everyone’s opinions count equally?  On the other hand, aren’t some people actually more qualified than others? Is elitism a good or bad thing?  This week’s topic is Pleasure Elitism.