Meaning: In this quote, playwright David Ives is making a humorous and thought-provoking comment about lists. At first glance, the statement might seem lighthearted, but upon closer examination, it raises some interesting points about the nature of lists and their potential impact on society.

Ives begins by describing lists as "anti-democratic." This could be interpreted as a commentary on the way lists can create hierarchies and categorize individuals or items into specific groups. In a democratic society, the idea of categorizing and ranking individuals based on certain criteria can be seen as counterintuitive to the principle of equality and fairness. Lists can create a sense of exclusivity and privilege, defining who or what is included and excluded based on certain parameters.

The term "discriminatory" further emphasizes the potential biases and prejudices that can be inherent in lists. Whether it's a list of top-ranking individuals in a particular field or a list of admission criteria for a prestigious institution, there is often an element of discrimination involved. Lists can perpetuate existing power structures and favor certain groups over others, contributing to inequality and perpetuating systemic biases.

Ives also characterizes lists as "elitist," suggesting that they can reinforce and perpetuate social hierarchies and divisions. Lists often highlight and celebrate individuals or entities that are deemed to be superior or exceptional, thereby reinforcing the notion of an elite class. This can further exacerbate social inequalities and create a sense of exclusivity that is inaccessible to the majority of people.

Lastly, Ives humorously points out that "sometimes the print is too small." This serves as a lighthearted observation but also touches on the idea that lists can be exclusionary in a practical sense, making them difficult to access or understand for some individuals. The notion of small print can be seen as a metaphor for the barriers that lists can create, whether through complex language, inaccessible formats, or simply by perpetuating a sense of exclusion.

In the context of modern society, lists are pervasive and influential in various domains, from media rankings and academic achievements to social hierarchies and professional recognition. They shape our perceptions of success, excellence, and worth, often at the expense of those who do not fit the prescribed criteria or standards. As such, Ives' quote serves as a playful yet insightful critique of the role that lists play in our lives and the societal implications they carry.

In conclusion, David Ives' quote about lists provides a thought-provoking commentary on the potential drawbacks of categorization and ranking. By highlighting the anti-democratic, discriminatory, elitist, and exclusionary aspects of lists, Ives prompts us to consider the broader implications of these seemingly innocuous tools. Lists may serve as a convenient way to organize information, but they also have the power to reinforce inequalities and perpetuate social divisions. As we navigate a world inundated with lists, Ives' quote encourages us to critically examine the impact of these seemingly innocuous tools on our lives and society as a whole.