There's some fine nuance to finding that balance, though. If the word I want to use is less well-known, but better fits what I'm trying to say (or is significantly shorter than "going the long way around"), then I'm more likely to use it. I think most everybody should strive to communicate as clearly as possible, and that may entail learning the occasional new word. Intentionally "talking down" can be insulting, as well as a step towards Idiocracy if we all start doing it together.
I get that it's appropriate in certain situations, or for certain audiences, but I try to stretch my brain to keep it learning (and therefore more sharp), and I hope most others strive to better their communication skills as well. IMHO it's necessary both to succeed, and to evolve.