Why the rich do matter

[Project Grudge]

Source: NPR

...we take for granted our easy access to cheap products, and forget the role of the rich in making it happen. He says we wouldn't enjoy such low airfares today if it weren't for the initial wealthy travelers.

O'Connell: Commercial air travel in its early genesis was extraordinarily expensive, enjoyed only by the wealthy.

Because the rich bought expensive plane tickets, airline companies and manufacturers could continue to invest in the new industry. Over time, that resulted in relatively inexpensive plane travel for all of us.

The rich benefit us in other ways too.

Read more: http://marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/03/16/pm_why_rich_matter/

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The comments make a lot of sense of the story and the income gap is too disparate, but the rich do serve a purpose. The ones who give the most are also the ones who are most likely self-made. Obviously, I don't think this applies to companies who took TARP or TALF funds. They aren't helpful in the slightest. But it's good to remember that all rich people aren't EVIL. I mean there are things like The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation that wouldn't be possible without wealth.

I'd like to see DU stop bashing the rich in general and have a more targeted reproach