Opinion

We Don’t Need the Elite to Save the Planet

They need to stop destroying it

Photo by fikry anshor on Unsplash

(non members can read this story here)

My Medium friend James Bellerjeau has a plan to convince the wealthy elite it’s in their interest to solve climate change.

Aspects of his plan include ‘punitive taxation on CO2 generating activities’ such that only the rich can afford them. These taxes would be spread out over items like cars, air transport, food, and housing.

While I admire James for his aspirations, I can’t help but think he gives them entirely too much credit. Good people generally don’t become billionaires.

Psychology's "Dark Triad" and the Billionaire Class

Here are three reasons why the uber Wealthy will not be allies in solving the problems we face as a civilization.

• They can’t be taxed.
• They have a historical playbook that transitions from democracy to authoritarianism whenever their wealth is threatened.
• They know what’s coming and are preparing.