Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Does money corrupt?
There have been several studies recently indicating that rich people are more corrupt than average folks. This take by Andrew Sullivan has some good links as to why money might insulate us from other people, make us less apt to understand how it is for those without money, and more into the addiction of getting more and more of it. We have all seen the corporate heads who did something unethical to get more money when they already had a lot. Jesus warned about it in his talks. Anyway it's a good article.
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6 comments:
I've always thought it corrupts. For the most part, it seems there is something not all that ethical in the minds of those who place value on money above everything else. The making of money for the sake of money is corrupting.
However, making money to make sure you and your family survive and have some comfort is another matter.
I think it's the power that money gives to the wealthy that is the corrupting influence. You know what Lord Acton said about power corrupting.
A lot of self made people that grew up without money know what it is like to be on both sides of the equation, but for many people it seems to be more about the power that money brings. I think those power hungry folks are more likely to be corrupt.
I think the point was well made that it's good to have enough to be comfortable, to have nice things, but there is a level above that where someone can have everything they want. Then what do they do? If they still will cheat to get more, it makes no sense. I have always found it amazing when someone who is very wealthy does underhanded things to get more.
I agree Rain. It is like contractors that cheat. There is plenty of money to be made on government contracts but some companies choose to cut corners or skimp on materials. Those people should be put In jail.
I thought that research was interesting, too. I think money may increase the risk of corruption, but it really does come down to the individual who has it. Maybe it depends on the individual who's trying to get money, get more money, or keep money.
I always like to know more about the specifics of the study.
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