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There is a concept in the field of economics known as the wealth effect. This effect refers to an increase in household spending that coincides with a perceived increase in household income or wealth. In other words, if you suddenly see your stock portfolio climbing or you receive a raise at work, then you’re more likely to start spending more.
This positive correlation between wealth and propensity to spend has been well documented and borne our by countless economic studies. But there is a second effect of wealth, a new wealth effect that is coming out of the field of behavioral economics. This one doesn’t have to do with an individual’s propensity to spend as much as it has to do with their propensity to be a jerk.
In March of this year, the Freakonomics blog had a post entitled “The Wealth Effect: It Ain’t Pretty”. The post mentioned a Boston Globe article by Britt Peterson. Let’s look at a quote from Peterson article:
“Rich people have a harder time connecting with others, showing less empathy to the extent of dehumanizing those who are different from them. They are less charitable and generous. They are less likely to help someone in trouble. And they are more likely to defend an unfair status quo. If you think you’d behave differently in their place, meanwhile, you’re probably wrong: These aren’t just inherited traits, but developed ones. Money, in other words, changes who you are.”
These aren’t just words of a journalist writing an article; they’re backed up by recent studies into human behavior and money’s effect on it. And while we all know the old adage that money can’t buy happiness, recent studies have actually shown that excess wealth can have a negative effect on ones ability to be happy. Medical News Today reports that “Rates of depression are much higher in countries with higher income rates overall.”
If this new wealth effect is true then what are we to do? I would say we should focus on what makes us truly happy in life. While many assume that they “need” more money to be happier this simply isn’t the case. I’m sure you’ve heard the words of that great philosopher The Notorious B.I.G., “[More] money [more] problems”. Check out the link to the Forbes article below to see how and why a higher income may be tied to more problems and tips for you in dealing with your money and your happiness.
Links to cited sources:
http://www.freakonomics.com/2012/03/02/the-wealth-effect-it-aint-pretty/
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What should The wealth effect be shown as graphically a?
shift of the consumption schedule
What is wealth effect mechanism of monetary policy?
The wealth is a collection of property, money and finally, goods and services that a person possesses as assets.
True or False The real wealth effect is one reason for the negative slope of the aggregate demand curve?
true
Which is the economic system that equates a nations wealth with amount of its gold and silver?
Mercantilism is the economic system that equates a nations wealth with the amount of its gold and silver. Mercantilism was in effect from the 16th to 18th century in France.
How do you describe WEALTH?
Wealth is when your are not poor, but very rich
How did the Native Americans effect Jamestown?
wealth and power
Should you bring a ring of wealth to armadyl?
no. unless you are soloing, ring of wealth has no effect in lootshare/coinshaire
How did the gold rush effect Europe?
Increased Trade, Lifestyle and Wealth.
What should The wealth effect be shown as graphically a?
shift of the consumption schedule
Corrosive effect of snobbery and wealth?
There are many corrosive effects of snobbery and wealth. These features cause a person to be chronically selfish and mean.
What is wealth effect mechanism of monetary policy?
The wealth is a collection of property, money and finally, goods and services that a person possesses as assets.
What was the effect of the Khmer farmers surplus in southeast Asia?
They earned great wealth.
How did the growth of city-states effect the renaissance?
The growth of city-states during the Renaissance led to increased wealth and patronage of the arts, fostering a flourishing cultural environment. City-states like Florence and Venice became centers of artistic and intellectual innovation, attracting artists, scholars, and thinkers from across Europe. This competitive and cosmopolitan atmosphere contributed to the development of new ideas and artistic forms during the Renaissance.
What effect of the industrial revolution?
many manufacturers and traders men enjoy wealth
What was the cause and the effect of the Crusades?
Cause - to increase land territory and wealth. Effect - life was, good or bad, it shaped the way we are now.
The effect of the gold discovery on Alaska?
It created a stampede of people seeking instant wealth.
What was the cause and effect of the first crusade?
Cause - to increase land territory and wealth. Effect - life was, good or bad, it shaped the way we are now.
