That's an interesting way to look at it. However as someone with few/weak social connections, I feel like the calculus has been the exact opposite for me, as I

That's an interesting way to look at it. However as someone with few/weak social connections, I feel like the calculus has been the exact opposite for me, as I've transitioned from broke college student to well-paid tech employee. When my bank account was near zero, I jealously guarded it, not having any reason to believe that charity to strangers or even acquaintances would be repaid. Now that I have plenty of savings, I don't think twice about giving away money, because I have no particularly elevated social position to guard (nor am I desirous of obtaining such).