Society has always, and still does operate that way - there always a perceived 'underdog' who can openly criticise a perceived 'overmaster', but unacceptable the other way round.
In return they get / get to feel downtrodden.
Does not solely relate to wealth / status.
There have a been a few on here over the years who have been openly contemptuous of the 'great unwashwed' as I recall.