I work in what is essentially a Java shop and the opposite is true for me. The Java programmers work on the data set and provide me with an API. My responsibility is to present the data using a Rails application in a sound UI and in the fastest way possible.

They often make remarks about how Rails is easy and Java programming is where real men make their mark.

I think this comes down to a need for people to feel proud about the tools they use and the things they make.