R: Revive Noblesse Oblige

In our modern period, there is much debate over correcting “wealth inequality” and ending the “class struggle.” Most everyone embroiled in this debate has the same goal: to relieve the suffering of the poor, be it economic poverty or another form. While many millennials claim our society needs a new system to solve these issues, history gives us an alternative to the various -isms: Noblesse Oblige.

The term noblesse oblige comes from French and literally means “nobility obliges,” that those in the nobility have a moral and social duty to give aid to the less fortunate in the form of welfare, education, and protection. In the middle ages, this often took the form of feudal systems, where the landlords (nobility) would protect and care for their tenant workers. In American history, one of the best examples of noblesse oblige is that of the Rockefeller family, whose personal contributions to the arts and social institutions remain unparalleled. There is no doubt the system of noblesse oblige once worked in certain situations. But should we bring it back?

One might argue that what America needs is, in fact, to embrace the class divide and ask the aristocracy to do more for the underprivileged. It might very well put an end to many public policy debates to have the very rich willingly use their wealth to fund education and welfare programs on the condition of being recognized as nobility and wielding more political power.

On the other hand, the idea of relegating some part of the public to permanent second class status, saying they are inferior to the nobility and need help, is offensive to many. Additionally, many people who come from nothing and leap to the top of the social hierarchy through hard work and talent don’t feel like they “owe” others the fruits of their considerable labor. If it’s my money, and I’ve earned it myself, why should I have to give any of it to anyone?

This issue brings up many interesting things to consider in the broader context of today’s social structure. Do we already have a “nobility” in America? Should we embrace our now meritocratic society or fight to bring back the aristocracy? What about a new, American monarchy? How far would the scope of the nobility’s duty extend? Should we aim for a communitarian system of localities supported by a few patrons?