Are the rich the "greedy" ones?

[Annette Hibbler]

I'm reading a book by Robert Kyosaki entitled, "Why A Students Work For C Students and B Students Work For the Government". I agree with most of his views of our public school system, the dangers of an entitlement society and financial ignorance.

He also touches on the subject of greed and it made me ponder. Popular opinion is that the rich are greedy and should be taxed to the hilt. With help from politicians, this idea has been methodically promoted as a reason behind higher taxes. But who ultimately gets the brunt for higher taxes? Anyway, that another forum topic...

Regardless of where you stand on the issue, there's little doubt that our current government is harvesting a large healthy crop of young adults with a solid "entitlement" mentality. The view that the "government should take care of me" is a growing movement. There is a growing number of "unemployed" who choose not to work and sit back and collect government handouts. They believe in getting something for nothing and that rich somehow "owe them". Their view is often that the rich are greedy crooks.

As investors, otherwise known as capitalists, we know the value of giving housing & commercial space for small business owners and retailer. We are giving first. Is it wrong for us to benefit from this? I would venture that many would accuse us of taking advantage of others. But aren't those who simply "choose not to work" and instead live off the government taking advantage of every single employee in the shrinking workforce and business owner who is forced to fund into that entitlement program? Are they providing anything to society or just taking from society?

Capitalists choose to make opportunities, finding a demand and the meeting it. They meet the needs of others in the form of housing and employment which ultimately benefits them financially. Is that greed? Through innovation, new products, supermarkets, transportation systems, housing, medical breakthroughs, hospitals, etc., they enrich our lives, give us jobs and food and many services we take for granted. Is that greed?

DON'T BITE THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU!

Simply stated, a capitalist knows he must give to society first in order to benefit. How is that greedy? Many family members I talk to regarding this issue don't stop to consider what would happen if the rich just packed up and left, which they are doing in growing numbers. With them go the companies, hotels, etc. which employ many. So who is hurting who?

I'd be interested in your thoughts. I totally respect everyone's opinion and do not want this to turn into a political discussion, please.