Agreeing with zaccus here, but from a different angle: "Striving to be cultured" is not the same as "social climbing" and ultimately is not an end in itself.

Agreeing with zaccus here, but from a different angle: "Striving to be cultured" is not the same as "social climbing" and ultimately is not an end in itself. Cultivating oneself is a way of using one's limited lifetime well and wisely. Ultimately, this offers the best shot at a satisfying life, and the most chance to benefit others.