The irony is that the Spartans were heroes for preserving the seeds of democracy even though they had nothing but contempt for Athenian democracy.
True.
But what chance of survival would've the Spartan society had if the Persians had won? Zero.
Sort of like the French now days. They consider us fools and bragards, yet the French would all be speaking German if it were not for our sacrifices for them. They have the freedom to call us ignorant, because brave Americans died to give them that privilege.
Do I like the French? No, they are a pain in the ass. They suck. But if they called for our help because of invasion or natrual calamity, I would be there to help.