Is there a way to design end game content that doesn't lead to a caustic community?

[BlueMage]

Caustic communities aren't specific to MMOs, though. Online FPS games suffer as well without even having "endgame" type content. If you've ever played Halo, Gears of War, or Call of Duty, you know what I'm talking about.

Its not even exclusive to gaming.

Nobody wants the person who's never played the sport before on their team when they're looking to win.

Nobody would rather hire somebody who doesn't know what they're doing when they can get someone who DOES know what they're doing.

Its human nature for people to be spiteful of anyone too far above them and too far below them.