I see where you're coming from. I think that wealth compared to the average is more important because it's so hard to place oneself in the social ranking when

I see where you're coming from. I think that wealth compared to the average is more important because it's so hard to place oneself in the social ranking when much of it is driven by priorities. For example where I live it wouldn't be unusual for an electrician to drive a nicer car than a doctor. On the other hand they might spend less on vacations. But as long as most people are somewhat close to the mean I think they are not so concerned about precisely where in the ranking they are. At least compared to a world where some people live like serfs while the upper middle class can afford drivers, maids and cooks.