Elitism.

Unfortunately, like populism, the word elitism is largely used as a negative today and bears all the customary, leftwing hallmarks of jealousy and envy. [See posting for March 19th 2007 or put 'populism' into the search engine.]
Obviously, if some small group based on birth, nepotism, favour or membership of secret groupings gains grossly unfair, social advantages then this is manifestly wrong.
But elitist is not a word which may be reasonably used as an insult if it refers to somebody who has risen due to a positive use of their intelligence and talents.
The picture may be distorted somewhat where totally talent-free celebrities are concerned who are the product of cunning manufacture by record producers et al.
Similarly, the Bosman Ruling in football is the prime culprit behind the astronomical salaries found in football which are given to players who are truly fourth rate.
That a great many League 2 [ie. Division 4] players earn salaries into six figures means that the supporter has to pay. Strangely, these self same supporters - as attested to on countless message boards - seldom attack low graded players for earning £200k but will protest loudly and long if a working company director earns a £100k in a firm which creates jobs and wealth. Such is the leftwing mindset.
Talent, ability, dedication, risk and hardworking attitudes deserve big rewards.
I cannot resent them their success.
But as we listen to the liberal elite you could be forgiven for thinking that the vast majority of large earners - beyond those already mentioned - are wastrels and parasites who bleed the country dry as they enrich themselves on sinecures at public expense; who contribute little to society. [All a tad marxist, wouldn't you say?]
What is really appalling is the suggestion that grammar schools feed elitism.
No. That is a fine example of meritocracy at work in a way which comprehensives have signally failed to emulate.