MAY 26, 2026
How privilege creates people who believe the world belongs to them
Marie Antoinette (2006)
The world around us is shaped by the memories we create as children.
Our parents are always references to us, since our relationship with them is built through the actions, behaviours, and guidance they give us while we grow up. I believe our inner child never truly disappears.
Whenever we don’t get what we want, everything suddenly feels hopeless, as if we are no longer allowed to dream about it or believe that something better may come. We become disappointed for a while, but eventually, the feeling passes — just like everything else.
Some people, however, are different from the rest. Call them spoiled or selfish, but they go through life rarely hearing the word “no.”
Not only because their parents never taught them boundaries, but because society itself rarely denies them anything.
If someone grows up surrounded by money or privileges that most people will never experience, the word “no” simply does not exist in their vocabulary. They are not used to hearing rejection, limitations, or being forced to obey rules.
Because they always had everything as children, they place themselves on a pedestal. Deep down, they truly believe they are superior to others in some way.
But when are they ever going to grow up?
Gossip Girl (2007 – 2012)
You will often find these kinds of people in powerful positions — as politicians, executives, celebrities, or leaders. I wouldn’t say they are naturally gifted at what they do, but rather that they were conditioned from childhood to believe power already belonged to them.
And even in spaces where there is no real hierarchy, these people will still try to place themselves above everyone else.
No matter the situation, they will always seek control. They need to be the ones making decisions, and if you disagree with them, they will do everything possible to convince — or pressure — you into changing your mind.
Because they have to win.
That is why so many dictators throughout history were deeply spoiled individuals. Even if they were not born rich, you will almost always find a parent who treated them as the favourite child, someone who was never properly confronted or denied.
It is frightening to think that we may be represented by people like this in senates, parliaments, and public institutions.
“Gossip” by Charles Haigh-Wood
Perhaps the power once given to Lords and Ladies never truly disappeared.
If you think about it, we are also partly responsible for maintaining their influence and immoral behaviour.
We vote for these people because we struggle to fully believe in the potential of those who come from the same reality as us.
We make influencers even richer because we continue supporting the lifestyles they sell online. Their luxury fascinates us.
And perhaps that says less about them than it says about us and how submissive we have become to status and power.
Nothing has truly changed.
In the end, the people who never hear “no” continue to maintain their positions by controlling everyone else.
Stylus.co 