Can the word “elite” be redeemed? I was more worried about that question yesterday than the presidential election. Yeah, I know I’m silly. But I’ve been using the word a lot lately — and I’ve discovered I’m very uncomfortable with it.
Up until a few days ago, I wasn’t inclined to use the word except when referring to politicians, executives of large corporations (”business elites”), and certain military units. Then I got hold of what I certainly believe is a very good idea — the notion we should protest the knee jerk disrespect heaped on artists, scientists, and intellectuals. But even after writing three blog posts on the topic, I’m still very uncomfortable with calling those people “elites”.
I’m even more uncomfortable thinking of myself and my friends — both online and off — as elites. So, now I’m wrestling with the word, wondering if it can ever loose its sour aftertaste? What do you think? Can the word “elite” be redeemed?
Oh. By the way, I’m certainly going to support and participate in the upcoming Carnival of Elitist Bastards. The idea behind the Carnival is rock solid and good. It’s just I wonder about the name and what it seems to imply.
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7 responses so far ↓
Robin // May 16, 2008 at 10:25 am
I’ve wondered about whether or not words can be redeemed, too. I’ve seen a number of examples over the years, but I’ve yet to see the words actually make any sort of positive comeback.
“Liberal” is a good example. As with “elite” it’s been said with such a nasty tone and connotation (especially over the past 8 years or so) that even the liberals have given up and had to come up with a new word (”progressives”).
I had a brief stint studying Wicca when I was younger and a lot of Wiccans were trying to reclaim the word “witch.” But here again, it just never seemed to happen. There are just too many negative aspects associated with the word.
A few years ago Bill Moyers had a guest on who wrote a book about politics and language (I believe it had something to do with the way the Republicans were stealing the language and turning it around to use for their purposes). I can’t remember who it was, but it’s interesting stuff.
lirone // May 16, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Strikes me it’s easier to turn a good word bad than it is to turn a bad word good…
Brian // May 17, 2008 at 3:45 am
I don’t have a problem with bastards because in this connotation the word ‘bastard’ refers to being tough, rock hard, steely and determined.
@Robin. I grew up in Wisconsin where the Progressive Party has a long history. The Progressive Party was founded by Republican Theodore Roosevelt in 1912.
The second most famous member was Wis. Senator Robert La Follette, Sr. who ran for president in 1924 as a Progressive and captured 24% of the national popular vote. The highwater mark for the party.
shirhashirim // May 19, 2008 at 4:02 am
At my company these people are called ‘professionals’. Within a few years that term has become just as pejorative as ‘elites’, as professionals are considered to be unable/bad at doing things that are different from their speciality.
Paul // May 20, 2008 at 12:54 am
@ Robin: I can’t think of any words that have made a comeback, either. At this point, I’m kind of thinking the Carnival needs to be renamed.
@ Lirone: Exactly!
@ Brian: Perhaps I shouldn’t have a problem with “bastards” — for the reasons you’ve stated — but I do. It strikes me the word is unwelcoming. How many people want to join a group of bastards?
@ Shirhashirim: That’s fascinating! It doesn’t bode well, though, for any effort to make elites respected.
ybonesy // May 21, 2008 at 10:29 am
I don’t know. I consider myself to be smart, interested in art and cultures (and culture), but I’m not elite. I’ve always had a bad taste for the word “elite.” It’s helpful to me when I’m talking about something that I do find elite or elitist. I don’t agree with how it’s been used to define Barak Obama and his supporters. That’s a misuse of the word. But I think the word itself is useful when properly applied.
Paul // May 22, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Good points, ybonesy! I think the word is going to remain problematic no matter what’s done to rehabilitate it.
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