In a world where fairness often seems like a distant ideal, perhaps we should consider a wealth identification system. This could help us understand who comes from wealth and who might need a bit more support.
Take a situation I encountered with a tenant, who drove a luxury SUV and asked for extra time to pay rent because he needed to withdraw money from his trust fund. This made me question the transparency and honesty of financial declarations, considering his apparent wealth and delayed payment.
Then there’s the contrast between two hypothetical Google employees:
1. Jocelyn, a 27-year-old worth $2.5 million thanks to a trust fund, hasn’t had to pay for her education or living expenses. She landed her job through family connections.
2. Fred, also 27, worth nothing, has worked through college, accumulating debt, and supports his mother on a modest income.
If managers knew the financial background of their employees, they might feel more justified in promoting Fred over Jocelyn, considering his greater financial need and equal qualification.
The proposed Trust Fund and Inheritance Identification Program would categorize individuals based on their inherited wealth into different tiers, allowing society to make more informed decisions about who to support through opportunities like jobs, promotions, or scholarships.
Imagine a scenario where an employer has to choose between two equally qualified candidates: one from a wealthy background and another who has climbed their way up from poverty. Knowing their financial backgrounds could guide decisions, making it possible to level the playing field somewhat.
This system could shine a light on the invisible advantages some enjoy and the hurdles others face daily. Although challenging to implement and controversial in nature, such a program might encourage a more equitable distribution of opportunities, supporting those who need it most without taking anything away from those who already have plenty.
