Where does the source of superiority come from? I suspect it comes from the power of guilt they these people are able to place on those around them.
Philip Rearden's attitude of superiority can be equated to the liberal left winger elitist types.
Examples include the Kennedy's, Hollywood celebritards, the left wing media, most Ivy Leaguers, trust funders, etc.
Like Philip, they feel 'guilty' about their wealth and status, especially since they didn't do a damned thing to earn it, and think that by taking money from others to distribute to the 'needy' that they will sleep better at night.
However, even though they may feel guilty about living a life of luxury and privilege, they would scratch and claw to maintain their lifestyle, whatever it takes.
Nicely stated. Had they earned their money, they would have held a proprietary sense toward the money. It's theirs through the sweat of their brow. But if it's somebody elses, that's different.
That's where my tag line comes in. I filched it from Margaret Thatcher.