Champagne socialist is a political term commonly used in the United Kingdom.[1][2] It is a popular epithet that implies a degree of hypocrisy, and it is closely related to the concept of the liberal elite.[3] The phrase is used to describe self-identified anarchists, communists, and socialists whose luxurious lifestyles, metonymically including consumption of champagne, are ostensibly in conflict with their political beliefs.
- ^ Moore, Matthew; Graham, Sarah (14 July 2010). "Champagne socialists 'not as left-wing as they think they are'". The Telegraph. London, England: Telegraph Media Group. Retrieved 5 May 2013.
- ^ Rooksby, Ed (16 April 2013). "So what's the problem with champagne socialism?". The Guardian. London, England. Retrieved 5 May 2013.
- ^ "Ken Follett: Novel activist". BBC News. London, England: BBC. 3 July 2000. Retrieved 25 November 2012.
Taking "Champagne socialist" jibes on the chin - "I've always been enthusiastic about Champagne" - the Groucho club member is no fair-weather friend of the party.