CHAPTER 13 – Our Elite and Public Life

In Chapter 13 of “Worldly Ways and Byways,” the author delves into the widespread reluctance of socially prominent and intelligent citizens to engage in public life, presenting a thoughtful exploration of the underlying causes. Among the key reasons cited is the geographic separation between the nation’s political capital and its economic or cultural centers, a stark contrast to the model observed in countries like England and France. This separation imposes significant personal and professional sacrifices on those considering public service, as it often demands a relocation that disrupts both their professional activities and their social lives.

The chapter further highlights the financial implications of such a career shift, with potential public servants facing the dilemma of forsaking lucrative private sector incomes for the often less remunerative realm of public office. This financial barrier is exacerbated by the requirement to reside in the constituency one represents, a mandate that sidelines many qualified individuals who have migrated to larger cities for better opportunities.

The social dimension of this predicament is underscored through anecdotes reflecting the prevalent disinterest among the elite in adapting to the lifestyle changes that accompany public service. This disinterest is mirrored in the disdainful attitude towards governmental roles, regarded by some as inferior or unworthy pursuits. Such perspectives not only contribute to the self-segregation of the upper classes from national life but also underscore a broader cultural resistance to engagement in public affairs.

Ultimately, the chapter paints a vivid picture of the challenges and societal attitudes that deter capable and well-positioned individuals from stepping into the public arena. It calls attention to the complex interplay between personal ambition, societal expectation, and the structural hindrances that collectively shape the landscape of public service, suggesting an undercurrent of elitism and material consideration that significantly influences the political participation of the country’s most capable citizens.