I don't think you need to look at it as ego. (small jet/RJ debate)
You need to look at it as what would be the better job.
Agreed, the F28/DC9-10 is the same size as todays bigger RJ's/small jets or whatever the PC term is today.
That being said, what do you feel is the better job? I'd much rather drive a 9 at say NW than a RJ at Pinnacle.
Nothing to do with ego, just better pay, work-rules, etc.
I'd rather fly the F28 with 1990 contract rates/rules at USAir then the 170 at Republic's current rates/rules.
The term RJ/small jet in managements eyes is less pay/bad work rules for the same mission of a comparable size mainline jet.
I'd have no problem flying the CRJ with the Group 4 rates (F28) from 15 years ago at USAir today. It would be a far better job then a CRJ driver at any of the Regional airlines currently.
I'd fly a kite if it paid me 300K a year!
It's not ego, who's the better pilot or any of that bs.
It's about, maximizing days off to be at home with the family and earning the living you deserve.
I think anyone driving people around in a pressurized coors light can at FL300 deserves more than 20K a year and with 10 days at home a month.