(By Hella Ahmed) Among conspiracy theories, one posits that small, secretive circles of elites—often lacking genuine erudition or refined culture—gather covertly to craft their schemes, a glass of fine vintage in hand. They map out their ambitions, assigning precise roles: to spy, intimidate, manipulate, or plunder some; to promote, defend, or propel others to success at all costs. They also orchestrate control over the media, whose maneuvers and influence significantly shape the visibility, credibility, and staying power of politicians.

Far from being a paranoid delusion or superstitious exaggeration, this belief reflects an observable reality. In certain circles, the display of a will to power by these influential figures is sometimes glaring. Their connections and established methods are easily discernible.

The Waves of Success

It would be misguided to assume that a prestigious degree or a lucrative position guarantees moral integrity or elegance of spirit. On the contrary, discoursing on noble causes in the media does not render anyone irreproachable, immune to compromise, unfair competition, or petty rivalries in pursuit of a platform, generous fees, or the display of material comfort as an exclusive privilege.

Certain insular circles are characterized by blatant snobbery. Yet, their representatives address the public as if they were followers in need of education or molding, while admonishing them not to aspire to their level or covet their prestige. For there to be adored celebrities, there must be dazzled, docile admirers, disinclined to question.

Indeed, some may be tasked in high places to enlighten the public on matters of general interest, and it is legitimate to listen. But mutual respect must prevail. Emissaries abound in every field, and public money—is it not the people’s money? There is no need, then, to feel intimidated by those who deem themselves superior, thriving as they do, traveling first-class and savoring starred meals on the Champs-Élysées. Money circulates in myriad ways, but it is the public, wherever it may be, that ensures its ceaseless flow.

The Monopoly of Discernment

Suffering, past trials—be they serious illnesses, assaults, or other tragedies—should not be a contest or a royal road to material success. Some victims silence their pain, while others share it to raise awareness. Yet, no one can claim the role of supreme arbiter or judge simply for having overcome hardship and gained a measure of notoriety.

In exclusive groups where elitism and competition for superiority dominate, individuals or factions often claim to have unique insight or authority, securing control over public influence, the representation of a cause, and the resulting financial rewards. It is commendable to share nuanced, constructive opinions with the intellectual world and the broader public. But this confers no privilege to sideline or crush other thinkers out of a hunger for glory or visibility.

It is regrettable to observe how some women, riding the wave of the MeToo movement, have thrust themselves forward with an aggression that betrays an internalized misogyny, thus tarnishing the very essence of feminism. When feminism serves simply as a façade, it becomes a dual immunity: a shield against the uncouth, sometimes even an alliance with them, and a means to compete ruthlessly with other women, free from suspicion or challenge. Crocodile tears triumph.

Denouncing Exploitation While Exploiting

It is not a matter of systematically questioning all figures elevated to prominence, backed by powerful funding or networks. Some exert a positive influence, evident in the response of an enlightened public. Yet, we must preserve a critical gaze on those who set themselves up as arbiters of morality or architects of power behind the scenes. Rarely wholly virtuous or wholly villainous, they often play both sides, driven by sincere convictions yet drawn to growing success, courted by opportunists seeking ascent. They filter, according to their desires and principles, those they choose to elevate or eliminate, often without concealment.

Is it truly possible to be a public figure thriving on the waves of “buzz” without exploiting others or manipulating situations? Many instrumentalize themselves, sharing their experiences, trials, traumas, or illnesses to boost visibility and revenue. Social media has democratized this art of the intimate, transforming the exposure of oneself or others into a lucrative trade for countless creators and influencers.

Yet, there is a line not to be crossed: that of intrusion, undue appropriation, or exploitation of others for personal gain. Non-consensual partnerships, intellectual theft, “copycat stalking,” and obsessive fixations in pursuit of scoops or buzz constitute modern abuses, where the ethics of visibility become a critical issue.

The Voice of Each

There are educated individuals, laden with degrees, who have nothing original to offer, just as some figures promoted as experts betray a glaring lack of substance. The public, far from ignorant, cannot be reduced to a passive spectator or captivated admirer. Intellectuals who do not work in the shadows to shape the future of communities, control access to notoriety, or distribute wealth lack neither courage nor resources. They are fully entitled to push their inquiries to their limits, to express themselves, and to defend their place against the grand heralds of the waves of buzz.

Hella Ahmed © All rights reserved – Find my books on Amazon