This stereotype really bothers me. Yes, some historians are snobs. Yes, enough historians have acted snobbish for this stereotype to become a "normal" view of historians. However, even I have gotten something along these lines, even though I'm under 30. I've gotten comments like "You may not be a snob now, but you'll still be a snob once you get your degree."
Again, as I said: there is a reason why this stereotype is normalized now. However, this does not mean that we should let the stereotype stand - especially when we consider that being a historian, while a choice, is still a job.
I think the main issue that comes up, especially for historians, comes from the fact that many people try to tell historians - especially specialized historians - that they're wrong in one sense or another. And yes, historians, like any other person, can be wrong. But when it comes from someone who doesn't know what they're talking about, then it gets annoying for historians (especially when the person is adamant in their "knowledge").
Most historians and history buffs look forward to civil discussions about history. Most of us love these situations that allow us to talk on and on about history. But there have been too many people who tell us what is "right" or "wrong" about our approaches to history. So if we appear "snobbish" at first, give us a bit of time to realize that you do want a civil discussion with us.
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