2001connections-article0101 Rise of the have-somes.

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2001connections-article0101

Rise of the have-somes.

At this point in time, when writing the present article, in March 2007, the phrase “Rise of the have-somes” represents my hopeful, optimistic scenario for the future, based on reversing certain current, negative socio-economic trends. You may have heard about the polarization of society into haves and have-nots. I presume this term was dreamed up by economists, to divide us according to monetary assets, into rich and poor.
How should we interpret such definitions? Perhaps 1/3 prediction, 1/3 stereotyping and 1/3 as statement of fact. Because the fact is, the middle class has been shrinking, to the best of my knowledge. A sad state of affairs for most of us, I would assume, except maybe for the comparatively lucky few who are at the very top of our socio-economic hierarchy. In other words, the majority of the population has more-or-less sufficient resources to survive, or maybe not even enough for a half-decent existence. At the same time, a relatively small percentage of individuals are living the good life, in opulence and extravagance. The two opposite extremes have become more pronounced, while the most moderate contingent between the two has shrunk. Both the haves and have-nots have grown in numbers. At the same time, the faction in the middle, the have-somes, gets smaller.
To read about my attempt at explaining at least one contributing factor to the fading of the middle class,

please click on
2001connections-article0020
Spendthrifts are a menace to society.

This situation is dangerous and unhealthy for any society, in my opinion. Particularly in the long term. Fortunately, we might be able to reverse or at least mitigate this destructive trend. In this context, the sum of individual efforts could yield profound results.
    What can you do as a consumer? In simplest terms, be selective about what you buy and from whom. If you can spare some time, make the effort to know more about the profile of various companies from which you purchase or would consider purchasing various products and services. Do they pay their workers a decent wage? Is the amount better or worse than the average in that sector? Is the company environmentally responsible? Do they give back to the community? Are the top salaries astronomical or just average-high? If the firm is a relatively good corporate citizen, they might merit your support as a consumer who has money to spend.
    On the political front, consider voting for a candidate who promises to raise the minimum wage to a more decent level. Ask many questions along the lines of “Why should I vote for you?”. And listen carefully to the answers.
    All in all, the potential for improvement is awesome. If each one of us does at least a little bit to effect positive change, the overall results could be spectacular. I’m banking on it, and so should you, the majority of citizens of the world.

End of
2001connections-article0101
Rise of the have-somes.

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