WEALTH

 Hartmann Report -  We need a new phrase to identify these oligarchs who are reaching out to seize control of our government, our economy, and our culture. One that is descriptive but carries a generally pejorative implication. I suggest we call them “the Morbidly Rich.”

Seriously. Their great wealth is neither healthy for them, nor for our society and political system. Dr. David Clawson recently wrote an insightful article for Psychology Today titled “Morbid Wealth” in which he argues these very points.

“From a societal standpoint,” he writes, “extreme wealth and wealth inequality are toxic. … Subjectively, we see the ultrarich and their descendants suffer from such things as anxiety, depression, addiction, and loss of meaning and purpose. …

“Notably, the ultrarich suffer from the trappings of their wealth. They have more to track, manage, and protect. Their wealth can become isolating for them, as well. They can be resented by many and targeted by others. Healthy and meaningful relationships can be hard to find for the ultrarich. Their wealth can also precipitate and facilitate their seeking of pleasure over happiness, a formula for addiction and dysfunction. The ultrarich have some increased risk factors for illness and disease.”

He goes on to point out that the income inequality that comes from the growth of extreme wealth is “antidemocratic,” because a few rich people can use their money to drown out the voices of millions of average citizens when it comes to determining public policy.