This clip caught my attention, and I started thinking about the message.
Wealth Inequality in America
Is it a problem to solved or a fact to be accepted? If the former, who will “solve” it?
In addition, several perspectives come to mind.
As a politician for a country (which I am not), I’d look at where the votes will come from and where the “troublemakers” are. My energies will be devoted to finding the messaging that tells all the “voting segments” they will be “safe” when I get myself into a position of power.
As a policy maker for a country (which I am not), I’d do my stint, write a few papers, give some recommendations, then look for a job in the UN, or similar tax free haven. The problem is too big to solve, but why not take advantage of my intellect? Why roll up my sleeves and get my hand dirty?
As a corporate tycoon (which I am not), I’d look at these as market segments that will dictate product features, prices, and profit margins.
As a parent, I would coach my kids to aim for the top 1% (play to win), not to avoid the bottom 25% (play not to lose).
As a social worker (which I am not), I would reach out to the top 10% and figure out a way to give the money to the bottom 10%. And I would have endless debates with myself about whether I should teach them to catch fish or to feed them fish. What if they are vegetarians?
As an individual, I day dream about being in the 1%, while coping with being in the middle 50%, and not sliding into the bottom 20%.
As an economist (which I am not), I would build models that explain all this, but not lift a finger to actually “solve” the problem. Maybe I’ll get a Nobel Prize, I’ll settle for a nomination or honorable mention.
As a philosopher (which I am not), I’d just shrug my shoulders and point out that the problem has existed since the dawn of time. Inflation has merely made the numbers look bigger and technology has made it easier to widen the gap. It is simply a reflection of humans as they see themselves.
Above all, I admire the awesome graphics and simple narration that got the message across so brilliantly. Now if I could do **that** well, I might instigate some action somewhere (in myself first).
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