A Wealthy Perspective on Wealth Inequality in the United States

Consider 'wealth' a relative term, and I'll define myself as someone with a low 8-figure net worth. I was raised in lower-middle-class circumstances and worked tirelessly to build my fortune, which I believe gives me a unique viewpoint on wealth inequality. This issue is something I think about often, and I support various causes that are working to address it.

The Visible Problem: International Perspective

Looking at wealth inequality on an international scale, most countries fall into two categories: the ultra-wealthy and the impoverished. Addressing these issues is straightforward because the issues are highly visible. Examples include feeding orphans in Bolivia, educating girls in Afghanistan, and providing drinkable water in India. These problems are clear and compelling, often leading to rapid changes. However, in some cases, the urgency of the issues can also result in violence.

The Subtle Problem: The United States

In contrast, the United States presents a more subtle form of wealth inequality. Unlike many other countries, we do not have impoverished populations living in squalor. Our less fortunate citizens have access to basic income, shelter, education, and social services. While these are significant benefits, they also create a situation where people are less motivated to address the issue. If a family has access to these fundamental necessities, they might be more inclined to stay within the existing economic system, even if breaking out of it seems nearly impossible.

The Cycle of Poverty: A Relic of the Chromosome Lottery

In the United States, there exists an entire class of people who have never worked a day in their lives, and the only way to maintain this class is through what I can only describe as winning the chromosome lottery at birth. The knowledge of how to stay in this class is passed down from generation to generation, making it exceptionally difficult for anyone, regardless of their social or economic background, to break free from this cycle.

What Will Change This?

The question of how to change this situation, and how long it will take, remains unanswered. However, I, along with many other wealthy individuals, am actively thinking about these challenges.

One of the biggest challenges is the perpetuation of a cycle that serves the wealthy at the expense of the poor. This cycle is not just economic but social as well. It's a system where the rich ensure that those who contribute to their wealth have basic human welfare, thus maintaining their own prosperity while keeping the lower class in a perpetual state of economic dependency.

Global philanthropic efforts, like those mentioned, have helped to combat some of the most egregious aspects of wealth inequality. However, in the United States, we need to focus on changing the systemic attitudes and behaviors that maintain the status quo.

It's important to remember that while wealth inequality can seem insurmountable, there are steps we can take to create a more equitable society. From education to economic policies, there are many avenues to explore. The journey may be long, but the path to a more just and equal society is worth pursuing.