Do you know any artists or philosophers who actually think they’re superior? I’ve lived among farmers and small town businessmen who do, and I’ve also known a lot of artists and writers who don’t. My point is that there exists the idea in America that the arts are nonessential, and that real value is quantifiable in money. It’s common to say yes, sure, art’s important but if you don’t want to starve you better put it aside and get a job. That’s very American.