General Discussion

Brooks seems to include in the class of ‘elite’ all persons who have attended educational institutions beyond high school. I would not put most folks that I know who have degrees in engineering and science into that category. And I don’t think that their work in trying to make life better for all through progress in technology and science is what is causing the problems in our society that have led to Trump and MAGA. Certainly, as Brooks points out, a segment of our society has suffered over the last several decades. But that is more a result of big business moving their jobs out of the country and the wealthy finding ways to enrich themselves at the expense of the rest. Brooks, as a privileged member of the chattering class, may want to carry himself some guilt for being in that elite position. But most of that doesn’t have the right to extend that guilt over others who are trying to improve life by advancing technology and science.