Elitism

[darcwizrd]

While this maybe an odd topic I'm rather bored right now so please bear with me. So in my boredom i decided to look at some anime reviews. And I stumbled upon a reviewer by the name of the anime overlord (this is on youtube). Now at first I sort of like at how thourogh he was even though his videos are 10 minutes long. But the more and more I watched his reviews and other videos I feel the elitism in them and then i came across this video: X. When I saw it I finally thought he was an elitist. I mean I don't mind that he has his own views on things, but a lot of what he said was very rude and demanding. Which lead me to this forum. So what do you think about elitism?

[ainsoph9]

I can and will only speak of elitism in broad strokes. Generally, elitism is a form of zealotry, which tends to hold a high standard of things out of love/hate of something that the elitist pursues as an interest. Zealotry tends to be characterized with judgment and harshness. In other words, it just is not very loving towards others and tends to alienate them as a result. While elitists may be elitists out of a genuine love of whatever, ultimate their attitude is not very loving. In a sense, their zeal becomes a source of idolatry, since it puts the object of their zeal up on a pedastal that no one, bar the elitist, can reach. For the sake of a broader community, such behavior can be and tends to be destructive, unless it is mitigated by self-control, love for others, and wisdom.

For the purposes of the anime community, I do not think that such a standard really applies in some senses nor do I think that it is totally helpful. At the same time, maybe elitists could use this as somewhat of a guideline as a way to show that they are truly fans among fans. You do not need to tear down others to make that point.

[Mystes]

The video description says Kira in the video, but it wasn't me. Just in case some are wondering.

[ainsoph9]

Just accept your fate and punishment.

[Cosmic Eagle]

The video description says Kira in the video, but it wasn't me. Just in case some are wondering.

I didn't know you sounded like that....

[ainsoph9]

Now that I have kira's voice print...*insert evil laugh here* BOT?

[Mystes]

Well, I think that the people are extreme rather than elitist. Actually, did you guys ever go to fansub groups' IRC channels? It kinda reflects that sometimes.

[ainsoph9]

How do you differentiate the two, kira? They often go hand-in-hand.

[Mystes]

What WOULD be qualified as elitist?

To be honest, as I said, people are mode vocal on their opinions. Elitist would be when you go saying "Well, I know more than you, being in Jp culture that long." etc.

[ainsoph9]

You can be vocal on your opinion but humble about it. So, I do not think that being vocal is being elitist. Also, knowing more does not make you elitist. I think that the big distinction here is more about how you carry yourself in manner. If you are haughty and arrogant, then I think you could start going in that direction.