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> But as is becoming increasing clear (again), society is worse off when relative wealth distinctions grow (at least, if they grow too large). Why is it clear?

• bawolff 5y ago
  Eventually, if the wealth divide becomes too great and ossified, the logical thing for the poor to do is have a violent revolution (since there is no other way to advance their station in life). This sucks for basically everyone, rich or poor. I think we all have a selfish interest in making sure it doesn't come to that.
  • LudwigNagasena 5y ago
    This sounds like a very dishonest and bad faith argument. Would you defend a policy against immigration because it may lead to terrorism by nationalists, or would you rather try to solve the real problem? It seems that you don’t think that society is worse off as relative wealth inequality grows. Society is worse off when people who are mad for whatever reasons start to kill other people. And in any case we should note that it is not actual differences that rustle jimmies, but perceived differences.
  • csallen 5y ago
    Sure, but a big wealth divide does not imply ossification, it just means it's a longer path to get to the top. You can have a big divide and still have mobility.
    • PaulDavisThe1st 5y ago
      You could have that, but the US just has a big divide and not much mobility, despite the folk tales that say we do.