The World is Full of Philistines

"The Philistine not only ignores all conditions of life which are not his own but also demands that the rest of mankind should fashion its mode of existence after his own." - Goethe

I've travelled enough to know a Philistine from a true Traveler. Philistine tourists (fanny pack, shorts, trainers, white socks, cap, loud, demanding et cetera) add to the local economic activity by infusing new money into the system but thats it. It's a pure economic transaction. They view world as their playground, expecting people to cater to their needs driven by the price of things. The core expectation is that anything can be bought. They are always on the outside looking in.

A true Traveler - with bohemian qualities - on the other hand is breathing the true air of life. It's not about being serviced but connecting to the everyday life. It's about taking part, being humble, sharing and contributing. It's about being equal on a human level with whomever you meet. It's about an appreciation for life and not for being pampered. It's about a curiosity that extends beyond normality.

Life is full of Philistines with the sole ambition to solitify their position in the race for a middle class life full of percieved richness. They will do anything to impose their self-imagined superiority.

It's sad to watch but it's also what gives energy to counter culture reactions. But it's not just an anti-reaction but a voice of reason. Should money really be the currency in which we measure success, value and progress?