SFGate columnist posted a humorous"checklist" yesterday on the signs to check to determine if one is "elitist" or not (Are you an elitist? - 18 revealing ways to know for sure). I never really paid much attention to the word "elite" up until this election cycle, because the word used to conjure up someone who thinks they're better than others, mainly by virtue of having an education and knowing a thing or two about the world. In the hands of the Republicans and right-wing talk show hosts who use the word "elitist" to describe liberals or those who are out of touch with the folks out in middle America, make those who are associated with the word to be one step short of being communists, invaders, or anyone else who isn't "one of us". What's up with that?Suddenly, having an education, being well read, or asking the presidential candidates tough questions are areas that are suddenly taboo and off limits; anyone who does must be "elitist, out of touch with average peoples' concerns, or unpatriotic. I'm really bothered by all of this because the consequences of being uneducated and misinformed have dire consequences for the future of our country. In an age of globalism that requires us to compete with the rest of the world and an ever increasing need for scientific and technical education all around at home, to "dumb down" the public by attacking people who are educated is quite simply vulgar and disgusting.
In the race for the White House, I expect and demand that the brightest and smartest person be elected to occupy that position in Washington. I certainly hope that the person who does get the job is humble and understands the people who elected him or her, but I also expect that person to be super smart and wise. Calling that person "elitist" is disingenuous, because it degrades the qualifications needed to run the most powerful country on Earth. Call me elitist if you will, but I'll take being smart and ever questioning any day.
Posts
