They believe they are the holders of enlightenment. They, in their infinite splendor and wisdom, are fit to decide how it is humans will proceed and to what endeavors they are best tasked.
I will not claim to be any less arrogant. If anything, I am far more so. The difference is in whether or not one embraces nihilism. I believe this world holds an intrinsic purpose and role within a more grand scheme. The existential questions - the endless layers of 'the matrix' and perpetual pursuit of a divine reality - how these are answered determines much about how someone behaves.
I think I'm one of, if not the most intelligent and powerful beings (spiritually) to exist in current play. I kick 'gods' to the side with a mere thought and will break them for becoming little more than pigs (in human clothing). But this doesn't change the fact that I believe the purpose of the world is external - something to be sought both by myself and others in the world. I am not the purpose of the world, even if I am the highest form of spirit to have ever existed - there is still a purpose beyond myself to be pursued, contemplated, and understood by experiencing life and those within it.
Thus - the world, life, and their experiences are sacred and not to be trifled with. It is imperative that people at all stages be afforded the opportunity to learn and to grow. Nothing I do, or fail to do, can change that fundamental cause/purpose for life.
For those who have no such belief at their core, it is very easy to see the world as serving you - particularly those granted influence by the media. Thus, they see it as their place to rule… But I digress.