Why We Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less: An Argument for Trusting Expertise and Questioning Populist Appeals

In an era of growing populism and distrust of elites, it is important to consider the dangers of abandoning expertise and embracing anti-intellectualism. This essay argues that we should trust elites more and the masses less, as elites are more likely to be knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of making sound decisions. The essay also examines the dangers of populism, such as its tendency to scapegoat minorities and promote authoritarianism.

10% Less Democracy: Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less

by Garett Jones

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	994 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	246 pages
Paperback	:	110 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

The Problem with Populism

Populism is a political ideology that appeals to the common people, often by scapegoating minorities and promising simple solutions to complex problems. Populist leaders often use rhetoric that is anti-intellectual and dismissive of expertise. This can be dangerous, as it can lead people to reject sound advice and make decisions based on emotion rather than reason.

One of the most dangerous aspects of populism is its tendency to scapegoat minorities. Populist leaders often blame minorities for society's problems, which can lead to discrimination and violence. For example, in the United States, populist leaders have blamed immigrants for job losses and crime. This has led to increased discrimination against immigrants and a rise in hate crimes.

Populism can also lead to authoritarianism. Populist leaders often promise to restore order and security, but they often do so by suppressing dissent and limiting civil liberties. For example, in Russia, President Vladimir Putin has used populist rhetoric to justify his authoritarian rule.

The Benefits of Expertise

In contrast to populism, elitism is a political ideology that values expertise and experience. Elites are people who have specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field. They are often experts in their field and have a deep understanding of the issues that they are responsible for.

There are many benefits to trusting elites. First, elites are more likely to be knowledgeable and experienced. They have spent years studying and working in their field, and they have developed a deep understanding of the issues that they are responsible for. This makes them more likely to make sound decisions that are in the best interests of society.

Second, elites are more likely to be objective. They are not as likely to be swayed by emotion or prejudice, and they are more likely to make decisions based on evidence and reason. This makes them more likely to make decisions that are fair and just.

Third, elites are more likely to be accountable. They are subject to public scrutiny and criticism, and they can be held accountable for their decisions. This makes them more likely to make decisions that are in the best interests of society.

In an era of growing populism and distrust of elites, it is important to consider the dangers of abandoning expertise and embracing anti-intellectualism. This essay has argued that we should trust elites more and the masses less, as elites are more likely to be knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of making sound decisions. The essay has also examined the dangers of populism, such as its tendency to scapegoat minorities and promote authoritarianism.

It is important to note that not all elites are trustworthy, and not all masses are ignorant. However, on average, elites are more likely to be knowledgeable and experienced than the masses, and they are more likely to make decisions that are in the best interests of society. Therefore, we should trust elites a little more and the masses a little less.

10% Less Democracy: Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less

by Garett Jones

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	994 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	246 pages
Paperback	:	110 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE