Would you rather be rich or famous?

this quarantine has me incredibly bored so I’ve been pondering this question. Personally, I’d take being rich every day of the week. it seems like you get almost all the upside of being famous with none of the downside. interested to hear your opinions

6 Comments
 

I think a better question is: Prestige or money? Would you rather be an entrepreneur who’s worth millions, but in some unsexy industry and with no name brands on his resume? Or someone of the same age who has a prestigious title, but doesn’t make near as much money?

 

I've asked a lot of people this question. This isn't always true, but in general, I've noticed a trend. People who are from upper-class backgrounds always say they'd prefer the prestigious title or status, and people from lower-class or middle-class backgrounds are a lot more likely to want the money. This makes sense.

At least for me, time is the most valuable asset. Enough wealth frees up your time, and allows you to pursue what you want to, and a prestigious position or career path is also usually generative of wealth, and social capital or connections, and so on. But if it's one or the other, then I would choose wealth.

 

Wealth carries it own degree of fame, so I believe it’s difficult to separate the two. Granted I live in a small community, and while I consider my spending modest for my success I will admit my G wagen and 911 aren’t the most subtle luxuries. On several occasions I’ve met people locally that know more about me than I’d expect since I am very reclusive outside of business. Obviously this isn’t large scale fame, but even moderate success doesn’t go unnoticed.

 

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