Snobbery is not merely a demonstration of knowledge, but an expression of external confidence that in practice proves to be superficial and devoid of real depth.

Superficial Grandeur: Unraveling the Paradox of Snobbery

Snobbery is not merely a demonstration of knowledge, but an expression of external confidence that in practice proves to be superficial and devoid of real depth. At its core, this phenomenon consists of the desire to elevate oneself above others through an exterior display of elitism, while the actual knowledge remains empty and shallow. Such behavior frequently masks inner insecurity—a compensatory effort to overcome self-esteem issues and repressed personal problems. Snobs skillfully divide people into “the chosen” and “the others,” creating an atmosphere of a privileged circle, yet behind this supposed authority lies a vain attempt to assert oneself by wrapping a superficial display of knowledge in an aura of importance. Ultimately, true authority is replaced by mere external glitz, which cannot substitute for profound, meaningful knowledge and sincere self-confidence. This approach not only divides people but also hinders genuine spiritual development and growth.

How can the phenomenon of snobbery be characterized and what self-esteem problems often accompany it?

The phenomenon of snobbery can be described as the demonstrative exhibition of so-called “knowledge” that in reality is superficial and devoid of deep spiritual value. Snobs strive to create an atmosphere of elitism and superiority around themselves, showcasing knowledge that is essentially empty and formal. This behavior manifests as an attempt to place themselves above others, frequently masking inner insecurity and self-esteem issues.

For example, one source describes the snob as follows:
"One can easily recognize him by the overwhelming sense of his own superiority. He is the 'only one', 'unparalleled', he is above the crowd. He tries to rise above it..." (source: link txt).

This characterization emphasizes that behind the external display of superiority often lies a profound need to compensate for a sense of inner inadequacy. The knowledge the snob boasts about turns out to be “insignificant and petty, devoid of spirituality and devalued” and, in essence, represents merely “a veneer of details, ostentatious and formal” (source: link txt). Such an approach fails to create true authority, reducing itself to an external mimicry that signals fragmented self-esteem.

Furthermore, snobbery is often accompanied by the division of people into “the chosen” and “the others,” as an individual feels compelled to belong to a privileged circle. This division reinforces both the individual’s illusion of superiority and existing self-esteem issues, as genuine self-worth is replaced by the vain desire to assert oneself through distancing from others.

Supporting citation(s):
"One can easily recognize him by the overwhelming sense of his own superiority. He is the 'only one', 'unparalleled', he is above the crowd. He tries to rise above it..." (source: link txt)
"All his knowledge is insignificant and petty, devoid of spirituality and devalued... The snob is a spiritual appearance of existence, and the atmosphere he creates around himself—snobbery—is vain and harmful." (source: link txt)