Genuinely looking down upon those 'below' (however you define that) you is a symptom of an over inflated sense of self importance/pride or whatever you wish to call it.
I shamefully admit to being one of 'those' in my younger years (much younger!). I think it is mainly instilled in pilots by the system - if enough dudes keep going on about how much better their group (which you are a part of) is than others, then it can sort of subliminally work into your attitude.
I think as you get older and have 'been there' a bit, that the big (true) picture comes into view. Some people just don't WANT to do the job we do, some people just CAN'T - I don't think it matters, I really don't. I am grateful that I enjoy my job, but however cool it is, it doesn't make me better than anyone else - unless, of course, I am on pint number 8 and ladies are present :-)
Right, back to the beach and my cocktail.... oh wait....
MT