The Argument The Argument

Are elites just whoever you don’t like?

Aug 20, 2026 · 1h 14m

Summary

Hosts Jerusalem Demsas and Matthew Iglesias analyze original polling on who Americans consider "elites," finding overwhelming agreement that billionaires and celebrities fit the label, while professors and journalists do not. They discuss how the public perceives elites as holding opposing views on trade and gender, validating populist economic narratives. The episode also explores public support for egalitarian feminism and debates whether celebrities drive cultural change or merely reflect existing societal shifts.

Topics discussed

Defining the Elite: Poll Results on Billionaires, Celebrities, and Executives Public Perception of Elite Views on Trade, Government, and Social Issues Feminism in Practice: Public Definitions and Gender Equality Beliefs Cultural Influence: Hollywood, Media, and the Fragmentation of Discourse Career vs. Family: Generational Shifts in Life Priorities Overpopulation, Immigration, and the Contradictions of Environmental Policy Peer Review: How College Sports Networks Drive Elite Hiring
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