It is not seen as belittling (At least in my opinion)
I met one of the Formula 4 drivers who is now sitting in Formula 3, and climbing. Although I can't say who, or else it would cut down who I am to just 6 people.
Although it doesn't really matter now that I have stopped trying to get into Formula 1, and am now heading for Endurance GT3 Racing.
Anyways, I am proud to have known him. Making it to Formula 4 is very very challenging; Formula 3 is EXTREMELY hard.
To put it into perspective. You start out in karting. You get better, and better until you make it to pro-karting; where you face the best in karting.
If you manage to outperform everyone you make it to Formula 4. Where you face the best of the best of karting.
Formula 3 is the best of the best in Formula 4.
Formula 2 is the best of the best in Formula 3.
And FINALLY if you make to the 20 seats in Formula 1; you face the best of the best.
So it is a very: long, expensive, physically challenging, and mentally challenging process.