Re:The Faux Generosity of the Super-Wealthy: Why Bill Gates ...
by Nevermark on Wednesday May 26, 2021 @02:25AM
(#27287081)
Wow, a lot of hyperbole.
I agree the super rich bending governmental bodies to their wills is highly problematic. That isn't a billionaire problem though, it is a problem of weak anti-corruption laws in the presence of any wealth.
The biggest mistake I think the author makes is trying to classify Bill Gates (and other billionaires) as all saintly (supposedly by the press, etc.) or evil (the author's stance.)
>As former British Prime Minister Clement Attlee said, “Charity is a cold grey loveless thing. If a rich man wants to help the poor, he should pay his taxes gladly, not dole out money at a whim.” Bill Gates is not just some rich guy who is unsure about paying more tax: he’s a menace to society.
The assumption seems to be that the rich (or anyone?) cannot do any good with their own wealth unless it is given to governments. What an awful cynical ungrateful world view.
I agree the super rich bending governmental bodies to their wills is highly problematic. That isn't a billionaire problem though, it is a problem of weak anti-corruption laws in the presence of any wealth.
The biggest mistake I think the author makes is trying to classify Bill Gates (and other billionaires) as all saintly (supposedly by the press, etc.) or evil (the author's stance.)
>As former British Prime Minister Clement Attlee said, “Charity is a cold grey loveless thing. If a rich man wants to help the poor, he should pay his taxes gladly, not dole out money at a whim.” Bill Gates is not just some rich guy who is unsure about paying more tax: he’s a menace to society.
The assumption seems to be that the rich (or anyone?) cannot do any good with their own wealth unless it is given to governments. What an awful cynical ungrateful world view.