Unfortunately, there are real-world consequences to this game. You can’t pit one group against another without running the risk that everyone gets hurt.
“The trouble is that the wealthy don't fit the stereotypes,” writes Washington Post columnist Robert Samuelson. “They aren't all pampered CEOs, hotshot investment bankers, pop stars and athletes. Many own small and medium-size companies. Half of the wealth of the richest 1 percent consists of stakes in these firms.”
And who works at these small and medium-size companies? Or, for that matter, at big companies? A lot of people at the lower end of the income scale. The “Occupy Wall Street” protesters may think they’re taking a swing at the people at the top, but it’s people at the bottom who could wind up bruised.
In a way, though, the slogans are right. The rich aren’t paying their fair share. They’re paying their unfair share. So, protesters, want to level the tax playing field a bit? Didn’t think so.