The truth is, I feel sorry for the Old Etonians. Everybody should be judged on his or her own merits. Assuming that toffs are 'out of touch' is more modern and fashionable than assuming they have a 'natural fitness for government,' but it's no fairer.

The quote by Victoria Coren Mitchell explores the ideas of judgment, merit, and social class, specifically focusing on the Old Etonians, a term referring to former students of the prestigious Eton College in the UK. She argues that people should be evaluated based on their own merits rather than preconceived notions or stereotypes tied to their social background. This challenges the common assumptions made about individuals from privileged backgrounds.

Coren Mitchell critiques the modern stereotype that toffs (a slang term for the upper class) are ‘out of touch’ with everyday realities. She points out that this belief has become more popular than the older idea that the upper class had a ‘natural fitness for government.’ However, she emphasizes that neither assumption is truly fair or justified. Instead, she advocates for assessing people fairly, without bias, based on their actual abilities and character.

The origin of this quote lies in Coren Mitchell’s reflections on social class and political power in Britain, where class distinctions have historically influenced perceptions of leadership and competence. Her statement pushes back against simplistic views that judge people solely by their background rather than their individual qualities.

Ultimately, the quote encourages a more nuanced and fair approach to judgment, promoting equality and challenging social prejudices that persist in society. It calls for recognizing each person’s value based on their own achievements rather than inherited status.