Split Powerball jackpot equally among 300 mil Americans and end poverty in US
But here’s the problem. We’ve all heard the stories of a homeless man winning the lottery and becoming an instant billionaire and within ten years he’s bankrupt again. We ask ourselves “How does that happen?” Well, because each socioeconomic class has its own culture. What I’m NOT saying is that this is just or fair but I am saying that this is they way it is. Let me explain. Between the low, middle, and upper classes there are different cultures and they each view and treat different things uniquely. They are the “hidden rules,” if you will, of each socioeconomic class. These things go from the definition of people, the value of humor, what love and acceptance mean, how money is viewed, and so on. This may seem cruel but I have been middle class most of my life and have close family in lower class as well as high class and can see the differences. Now for examples:
Hidden rules in the lower class:
When you’re living paycheck to paycheck, there’s not much room for saving money. If there’s anything left over, it’s not irrational to treat yourself to something nice, especially since this is a rare occasion.
Sense of humor is highly valued
Food: Did you have enough? Quantity is important
Decisions is made in present based on feelings or survival
How am I supposed to think about going to college in four years when I need to worry about getting a job to help at home now?
Education is more abstract in values, not reality
It’s unaffordable and going to school will only take away time I could be working and earning money now anyway.
Family structure is matriarchal
Either Dad left his family or he’s working while Mom has to stay home with the kids because daycare is too expensive so the Mom tends to be more in charge of the home
Sees world in terms of local setting
The neighborhood and town are what directly influences these citizens. They can’t afford to go on vacations across the country, let alone around the world.
Hidden Rules in Middle Class
There may or may not be money left over in between paychecks and are more able to splurge on some things while saving something in the meantime.
Achievement is highly valued
Food: Did you like it? Quality is important
Education is crucial for climbing success ladder
One of the biggest things someone in poverty can do to get out of poverty is get a good education. Those with a college degree typically earn much, much more than someone with a high school diploma and definitely more than a high school dropout.
Family structure patriarchal
Both parents may be working and father is more likely to be around than if in poverty.
Sees world in terms of national setting
The scope of travel extends to much of the country and maybe slightly into Canada or Mexico but not much more overseas. Connections with people in other states is doable because it is more affordable to travel to meet them.
Hidden Rules in Upper Class
Money to be conserved and inverted
They know how to invest and save their money. That’s why they’re rich.
Financial, political, social connections are highly valued
Food: Was it presented well? Presentation important
Traditions and history are most important – maintaining connections
Education is great but what you also know about who you’re doing business with, working for, collaborating alongside all matters.
Family structure is based on who has the money
Power struggle between Mom and Dad now
Sees world in terms of international
They can definitely travel internationally. Lots of cruises and resorts and Europeans trips, etc. Possible business associations in other countries. Maybe even possibly family live or are from around the world.
Basically, my point is that having money does not make you rich or poor. It’s the culture and the hidden rules a person lives by. People come out of poverty by adapting to the hidden rules of middle class. Middle class people must adapt to the hidden rules of the upper class. Two things have been shown to get people out of poverty and neither of them are (directly) money. First, it truly is all about WHO you know. Relationships will move you forward. Build a network of people who can help you out in almost any given situation or place. Second, education. Getting a college education is crucial for those trying to move up in the world. Yes, there are those who got by without one but they are far and few in between. Besides, what’ll it harm if you learn something new along the way?
