Will the day come when the celebritariat endangers its own existence by becoming a self-perpetuating elite, closed off to new members? There are signs that this is beginning to happen, with the children of famous people inheriting their celebrity status, just as aristocrats inherited their parents estates. It sounds odd to say it, but for those like my father who dream of turning Britain into a socialist paradise, the greatest cause for hope may be the existence of Peaches Geldof.

“Lulled by the celebritariat,” by Toby Young, Prospect, December 2008
Also see “Sick fascination with celebrities indicts Americans,” by Leonard Pitts Jr., Columbia Tribune, January 19, 2008