Meaning: This quote by Pauline Kael, a renowned film critic, offers a thought-provoking commentary on the concept of the Philistine. The term "Philistine" originally referred to a member of a non-Semitic people of ancient Philistia, who were regarded as uncultured and hostile to the arts and intellectual pursuits. Over time, the term has evolved to denote a person who is hostile or indifferent to culture and the arts, someone who is unappreciative of intellectual or aesthetic values.

Kael's quote suggests that one of the clearest indicators of a Philistine is their reverence for the superior tastes of those who look down on them. In other words, she is highlighting the irony of someone who takes pride in deferring to the perceived superior tastes of others, especially when those individuals may dismiss or belittle them. This idea challenges the notion that certain tastes or preferences are inherently superior and questions the authenticity of such reverence.

Pauline Kael was known for her bold and often controversial critiques of films and the film industry. Throughout her career, she challenged established notions of critical authority and sought to democratize the appreciation of cinema. In this quote, she seems to be addressing the dynamics of cultural elitism and the ways in which individuals may internalize and perpetuate these hierarchies.

The concept of the Philistine and the dynamics of cultural elitism are not limited to the realm of film or art criticism. They are relevant in various aspects of society, such as literature, music, fashion, and more. The quote invites reflection on the ways in which individuals may navigate their own cultural tastes and values in relation to the perceived judgments of others.

Kael's observation raises important questions about the nature of taste and cultural hierarchy. It prompts us to consider the motivations behind our cultural preferences and the extent to which they are influenced by external validation or social norms. The quote also challenges the notion of an objective hierarchy of taste and encourages a reevaluation of the value we place on different forms of cultural expression.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the potential power dynamics at play in cultural appreciation. It suggests that the act of revering the tastes of those who look down on us may be a form of submission or internalized inferiority. This can be seen as a call to assert one's own agency in matters of cultural appreciation and to resist the pressures of conformity or deference to perceived authority.

In conclusion, Pauline Kael's quote offers a compelling insight into the dynamics of cultural elitism and the concept of the Philistine. It challenges us to critically examine our own cultural values and the ways in which we relate to the perceived tastes of others. By questioning the notion of superior tastes and the dynamics of deference, Kael's quote encourages a more nuanced and self-aware approach to cultural appreciation.