The term "one percenter" is used to describe individuals who belong to the top one percent of the wealthiest people in the world. The spelling of this word is based on the pronunciation of the phrase "one percent" which is transcribed as /wʌn ˈpɜːsənt/. The combination of the words "one" and "percent" is shortened to form "one percenter" and is written as /wʌn ˈpɜːsəntər/. The term is commonly used in the media and popular culture to discuss issues related to wealth inequality and social class.
The term "one percenter" refers to an individual who belongs to the top one percent of a particular population or group, particularly in wealth or social status. This term most commonly gained prominence in relation to economic inequality, where it describes the wealthiest and most privileged segment of society. It emerged during the Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011, which criticized the concentration of wealth and power among a small fraction of the population.
In a broader sense, the term can also be used to describe individuals who hold significant influence or power in their respective fields, such as politics, business, or entertainment. These individuals often wield substantial control and decision-making influence, often far exceeding the average person's abilities or resources.
The concept of "one percenter" can be traced back to the Pareto Principle, or the "80/20 rule," which suggests that approximately 20 percent of individuals possess 80 percent of the wealth or power within a given system. The term "one percenter" emphasizes an even narrower proportion, highlighting the extreme concentration of wealth and influence in society.
Often used in a critical or disapproving manner, the term "one percenter" may evoke notions of inequality, elitism, and societal disparities. Some argue that the term oversimplifies complex social dynamics, while others consider it an important label to highlight and criticize the concentration of resources in the hands of a few.
The term "one percenter" originated in the mid-20th century and is attributed to a subculture associated with motorcycle clubs. The etymology of the term can be traced back to a statement made by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) in 1947. Following a violent event in Hollister, California, involving motorcycle clubs, the AMA issued a press release stating that 99% of motorcyclists were law-abiding citizens while only 1% were troublemakers.
This statement led to the emergence of two distinct groups: the "99 percent" referred to law-abiding motorcyclists, while the "one percenters" referred to those involved in criminal or deviant activities. Over time, this term became synonymous with outlaw biker gangs and their association with criminal behavior.