The challenges facing society today are often blamed on various socioeconomic groups, but Victor Davis Hanson, a respected historian and commentator, has identified a more insidious problem: the rise of the entitled, credentialed elite. This group, often comprising individuals who have enjoyed the benefits of prestigious education and social connections, exhibits a dangerous blend of arrogance and incompetence. Unlike the middle class, who traditionally bear the brunt of societal changes and challenges, this elite class has grown increasingly disconnected from the realities of the average citizen’s life, leading to decisions that harm society as a whole.
One of the most glaring issues with the credentialed elite is their sense of entitlement. Armed with degrees from top universities and a belief in their inherent superiority, they often assume they are best suited to make decisions for others. However, this entitlement is not based on practical experience or wisdom but on a self-assured belief in their intellectual prowess. As Hanson notes, this has led to a class of individuals who are confident in their own infallibility despite often lacking the necessary competence to understand or manage the complex issues they face.
This arrogance is compounded by a shocking level of incompetence. The credentialed elite often ascend to positions of power not because of their ability to solve problems but because of their social connections and institutional affiliations. Whether in government, academia, or corporate leadership, we have witnessed the disastrous results of their misguided decisions—from economic policies that devastate the working class to foreign interventions that fail to account for cultural and geopolitical realities. Hanson’s analysis highlights that this incompetence is not simply a matter of poor judgment; it is a result of an education system that rewards conformity and elitism over critical thinking and practical knowledge.
The middle class, in contrast, remains grounded in the practical realities of daily life. They work hard, often in professions that require tangible skills and real-world problem-solving abilities. Yet, despite their essential role in keeping society functioning, they are frequently dismissed or patronized by the elite. This dismissal is not just unfair; it is dangerous. The middle class understands the consequences of elite-driven policies because they are the ones who must live with them. They do not have the luxury of escaping the fallout through wealth or connections, making their perspective invaluable.
In conclusion, the true threat to society is not the middle class but the entitled, credentialed elite who wield power without accountability. Their blend of arrogance and incompetence, as Victor Davis Hanson so aptly describes, is a toxic combination that leads to misguided policies and societal decay. It is imperative that we recognize and address this issue, empowering those who understand the real world—often the middle class—to have a greater voice in shaping the future. By doing so, we can hope to restore balance and ensure that society is led by those who are not just credentialed but also capable and connected to the people they serve
If you enjoyed this article, then please REPOST or SHARE with others; encourage them to follow AFNN. If you’d like to become a citizen contributor for AFNN, contact us at managingeditor@afnn.us Help keep us ad-free by donating here.
Substack: American Free News Network Substack
Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@AFNN_USA
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/afnnusa
Telegram: https://t.me/joinchat/2_-GAzcXmIRjODNh
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfnnUsa
GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/AFNN_USA
CloutHub: @AFNN_USA