As I was reading your essay, it occurred to me that I have heard another version of some of the points of the "Star War Saga" that Brin objects to, and it is called "Evolution." 1) The Elites are fit to rule, because they are the survivors. 2) Being an Elite is hereditary. I'm sure if I thought more deeply on this matter I could cover the rest of them also. Certainly, the others are similar to some assumptions we make in everyday life. Brin needs to chill! :-)