>For starters, the idea that some people are just inherently exceptional programmers and others can only be competent is elitist.

It may be elitist, but that doesn't make it incorrect. There is a floor level of intellect and memory that is required to program effectively, and those that are born with more of those gifts have more potential to be a good programmer. It still requires work to hone those skills, but that work is more effective if you're starting from a higher floor.

I could practice playing basketball as many hours as Lebron James or Kevin Durant, but they are always going to have inherent advantages over me.