Abstract
In his 6th century work, The Consolation of Philosophy, the Christian philosopher Boethius offered commentary on subjects such as fame, fortune, and happiness that seems radical in today’s materialistic society. Boethius felt that money actually carries very little value, and is actually a burden upon those who amass vast quantities. Wealth provides nothing in the way of happiness, for true happiness is found within one’s self and one’s family. Boethius’ thoughts would no doubt seem foreign to a vast majority of current society. The extremely wealthy are set upon a pedestal above the rest of society, and their status is envied and sought by the masses. While rare, the values Boethius wrote of are not nonexistent. The Larges, a couple in Canada who won the lottery, are proof of this. Content with their simple rural lives and the companionship they share, the couple donated ninety-eight percent of their $10.9 million draw to local charities. They perceived happiness not in their new found wealth, but in each other. They saw money as a burden rather than a prize. Their act of generosity is Boethius’ ideals personified in today’s culture.
Recommended Citation
Schlant, Daniel
(2012)
"The Richest Are Not Always the Wealthiest,"
Proceedings of GREAT Day: Vol. 2011, Article 17.
Available at:
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/proceedings-of-great-day/vol2011/iss1/17