Concept in Definition ABC

This word is used to mention the social class most privileged. As a general criterion, those who belong to this group live in luxurious mansions with all kinds of comforts and are known to the rest of society because they appear in the media. communication.

The term jet set is actually an invention of American journalism. This denomination began to be used around 1950, a time when only the richest could travel in airplane, that is, in jet aircraft.

The people who are part of the jet set have some general characteristics: great fortunes, good relationships with high places and a notable presence in the media. This last trait is important, because if a billionaire does not appear in the media, it is very likely that he is not considered a member of the jet.

The jet set and other denominations to refer to the richest

People with great fortunes and who are part of the social elite have always attracted attention throughout history. In both English and Spanish all kinds of words and expressions are used to mention them: jet set, high society, yuppies, WASP, beautiful people, posh, la

flower and cream of society, strawberries or just high society.

In the case of the social elites that are part of the entertainment world, the term celebrity is used. Regardless of the word used, the rich are viewed in two very different ways: with admiration or with a attitude of contempt.

The bad image of the jet set

The media, especially the pink press, present members of the jet set with a focus usually friendly and respectful.

Despite the good image that is offered of them, a part of society has a perception negative about high society. Thus, the social minority that is part of the jet is valued negatively. In fact, a stereotype has been created about this group: superficial and capricious people, with a arrogant attitude, that lives in a world of appearances and that everything they have in life is related to money.

This bad image may be justified in some cases, but it is very likely related to envy and some movies where the richest are dehumanized characters (in Federico Fellini's film "La dolce vita" the rich and powerful are individuals with scarce moral values and their lives are empty).

Photo: Fotolia - Maksim Smeljov

Themes in Jet Set