Swickard: A poor way to look at the rich

From NM Politics.net - Commentary by Michael Swickard - Much of our public policy is tied to the notion of citizens falling neatly into three categories: rich, middle class and poor. Those designations are usually based on income, which can be deceiving and is a poor way to look at the rich. We have a wealth of opinions about what wealth is, but no consensus. Are we wealthy if we have roofs over our heads and three meals a day? In some parts of the world we are extremely wealthy to be overweight since extra calories cost money not available in some societies. Likewise, are we poor with a roof and three meals of Ramen eaten in a house with only one bathroom and only basic cable? We are poor in comparison but not in reality. Except in the extreme, when Americans talk rich and poor it depends upon very subjective comparisons. Read Column

Swickard: A poor way to look at the rich