Hello to the humans of this chaotically beautiful world.
So the theme is: does money really change people, or simply reveals the hidden nature?
Normally, in our daily life, we usually hear that money changes people. And most commonly, it is said by the middle-class. There is a reason behind it: this class is neither rich nor poor. Just stuck in a void. So according to them, if someone gets rich, there is high possibility of them becoming arrogant, distant, selfish or spoiled. And, for the most part, it is true. Of course, I also am a middle-class individual. So my thinking process also revolves around this concept. However, I do have an opposing point. Primarily because of Nieztsche's understanding of class system. And I somewhat agree with that approach as well.
But for now, let me be the middle-class.
We have all seen it happen - money changing people. Someone gets a good job, starts a business, nowadays move abroad, or simply begins earning more than they used to. And slowly, something - actually a lot - starts to change. They starts to pretend more busy; they starts to take money business more than anything. It is more like a show-off thing, if you ask me. So, the conclusion is pretty simple: "Paisa agaya h, banda badal gaya (He got rich, he changed.)" Or to say it more poetically: “Jo khandani raees hain wo mizaaj rakhte hain narm apna,Tumhara lehja bata raha hai, tumhari daulat nai nai hai.” (Translation by ChatGpt: “Those born into riches tend to carry a gentler manner; Your tone tells me your wealth is newly acquired.”)
Look our Instagram, Tiktok or such apps; and you will easily find this sort of poetry.
Middle-class being middle-class.
But the thing is, we do not hate the fact that someone has become rich. In fact, most of us - openly or secretly - wish the same thing. Like who here does not want financial freedom, a better house, or power? Because money does bring power. Power good enough to control the world. So money is acceptable. But it is the new attitude which is not. The old friend suddenly become less important; the old lifestyle starts to look embarrassing, Ordinary Dhabas (Desi restaurants) become "not my type." And the same person, who used to understand financial hurdles; now looks at someone else's struggle as if it were a personal failure.
And this when we say, "See, he has changed."
Being honest, this has happened to me, so I can understand it. But nothing to feel pity, it was their choice. I am still the same for them, because friendship demands some sacrifices. Anyways, back to the real argument.
Societal Impact
Wherever I go; whatever I write. I am not going to leave without blaming society. Lol! I just do not like the way it works. Actually, it is not the person only who has changed, the society does too. As an example: the same guy used be "Munna." After money and status, he is called with utter respect i.e. "Munna Bhai." Funny enough, relatives who used to rarely call, suddenly starts to remember that they have a family connection. Invitations increase; respect increases. So, I believe the response is completely natural. The behavior is innate; but the society plays a significant role in sharpening that nature.
A dead Son over failed son
Kafka, in Metamorphosis, mentions: "A dead son is better than a failed son." Quite brutal and harsh approach. But it is holistically true. Even parents, sometimes, get tired of seeing a failed son. So, it is easy said that society measures success. The moment a young man is asked, "Beta kitna kama lete ho? (How much do you earn?)," the standard has been set. His worth is being calculated, so the response later on is acceptable. Don't you think? The inevitable change is not a single incident, rather it is a process. And then we complain when people become obsessed with money and all that luxury.
Not a middle-class for the time being.
Because now come Nietzsche. This guy did not see hierarchy and inequality the same way, we usually do. He admired those who could rise above the status. Though his idea about aristocracy and slavery is controversial; but aristocrats (the elites in colloquial term) have risen up in their field. They have created something greater out of themselves. They have surpassed their limitations, so they have all the rights to attain that position. And, I do agree with this point of view. There is a person who has worked really hard, and still has to work to attain that position. Then there is someone who has not followed the same routine. Yes, one can debate about legal and illegal manners, but that is not the point for now. Rational approach really cares more about power rather than morality. Hard truth to swallow though.
So maybe we look at someone successful and assume money made them different, when perhaps it was their ambition, discipline, society or simply that ruthlessness existing long before the money arrived.
So, Does It Change People?
I think I have bragged for a long time. For my final approach, I would like to keep a neutral approach. Yes, money changes a person behaviour. Sometimes it genuinely changes priorities, relationships and behaviour. But sometimes it simply removes the restrictions that were hiding those traits. Maybe money is less of a personality maker and more of an amplifier. A generous person can become more generous; a greedy person can become greedier. There are NGOs working because someone is generous; but the same one are working to avoid taxes. And then there is society which, of course, keeps adjusting the volume.
Money may reveal the person underneath; but what that person chooses to become afterwards is still their own decision.
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Peace 🕊️
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This is my entry for IndiaUnited Contest. Do check out the rules before applying.
Picture was taken by me using Infinix Note 50 Pro.
