Equal Shares
You know those annoying ads that are all over Google pages?
Like this:
I saw this one today and actually clicked on it.
If you can't make it out it says, "How much money would I get if we divided up all the wealth in the world into equal amounts?'
The theory and numbers they use to answer the question are pretty weak, but it is a very interesting question and it really caught my attention and my imagination. I was disappointed to see their answer to be only a paltry $6,685.92. I imagined it would be more and that we could all be millionaires.
Oh well, back on your heads.
posted by Kevin @ 12:15 PM
2 Comments
2 Comments:
Despite the numbers and the theory they use to arrive at the numbers, there is still likely a large amount of validity to their supposition. It's sad to think that so few people have so MUCH of the world's wealth while so many people have nothing or close to it.
Sadder still is the possibility that a statistic like this will lead to tighter fists rather than increased generousity. I think the wealthy might be more apt to be prodded to generousity if there was proof that world poverty could be ended (or at least have a serious dent made) by them donating their fortunes. If they see a report saying that if everyone gave up their wealth, then everyone would have enough money to be well below US poverty level, they're not likely to want to help.
Again, I find the math they use to be largely flawed. Using the same scale for the entire population causes problems...the retired folks (theoretically) need less to live than an upstart family with a handful of young children. Granted, the family would be getting a portion of money for each of their kids, so perhaps that helps even it out.
It also fails to address the concept of less "liquid" wealth... If the $6k is in addition to providing everyone with a home to live in, suitable clothing, transportation, and even food, and entertainment...then sure, $6k could be acceptable.
I remember thinking on the "star trek" economy from time to time where it's sort of a "law of consecration" type society in that everyone pools their time and talents into the better of society while receiving all they need to survive.
It's an idealistic concept that truly requires people to be of a greater mindset, but honestly, once arriving at such a position where everyone gives up all of their wealth, then money becomes essentially meaningless and $6k would become an extravagence.
So instead of distributing the wealth in monetary form, perhaps what they should consider is having EVERYONE in the world sell off their extravagent items, keeping an inventory of luxuries they'd like back...and then pool all of the money to provide homes, food, clothing, transportation, etc. for the entire population. Any money left goes into a community pool where neighbors can share luxuries.
Ok....I'm just rambling now...signing off. ;)
It's an idealistic concept that truly requires people to be of a greater mindset,..
I beleive the "concept" your describing is Communism and the "greater mindset" is the lowest common denominator.
Love,
Joe McCarthy
123 Rolling In Grave Dr.
NoPinkos WI, 00000
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