Research has found a strong link between wealth, selfishness, and unethical behavior, raising questions about how money affects empathy and morality.
Rich people are more likely to act selfishly and unethically, according to PsyPost. Studies cited show that wealthy individuals tend to cheat, steal, and display lower levels of compassion than those from lower social classes.
Researchers found that drivers of expensive cars were less likely to slow for pedestrians, with one study noting a 3% decrease in courtesy for every additional US$1,000 a car was worth. Finnish psychologists also linked luxury car ownership to negative personality traits such as stubbornness and lack of empathy.
Experts suggest this may be tied to “dark triad” personalities — traits of psychopathy, narcissism, and machiavellianism — which often correlate with higher wealth and status. According to one study, psychopathy rates are three times higher among corporate boards than in the general population.
Psychologist Steve Taylor explained that “psychological disconnection” drives some people to seek wealth as compensation for inner emptiness, leading to ruthlessness and reduced empathy.
While not all rich people are unkind, evidence shows wealth does little to boost happiness. Research by Daniel Kahneman found happiness plateaus after about US$110,000 yearly income. Studies suggest true wellbeing is linked more to altruism than to wealth.