In the modern Western world, the question ’what does rich mean?‘ will be answered differently than by a resident of the Amazon in South America.
But even within Europe, there are surely many different answers to this question.
For many, wealth is synonymous with material wealth in the form of a lot of money in the bank, a yacht of their own or ownership of an imposing property.
This ownership is so important to many because it comes with a good position in the social ranking.
By now, however, there is also the view in Europe, and in the entire Western world, that material possessions alone don't make people happy.
People with this view would then claim, for example, that someone who is rich is someone who has a lot of free time in which to pursue meaningful activities.
Or someone who has discovered their rich spiritual side, which they can now cultivate and live out.

What Does Rich Mean in Capitalism

In capitalism, it is always about maximizing profit. For the proponents and sympathizers of this ideology, it is important to keep getting richer. Standing still means falling behind to them. They are restless people, always driven by material success. They always know the price of everything, but have no idea of real values.

This mindset is responsible for continents like Africa, as well as large parts of South America, still sinking into poverty.
For a very few to be rich, meaning rich in capital, there must be very many who live below the poverty line.
Asked ’what does rich mean‘, a capitalist might respond with the following key points:

  • Yacht in the Mediterranean
  • Own estate in an attractive world metropolis
  • Large garage with many expensive and stylish cars
  • Vacation home in an exquisite location
  • Several servants who take care of the houses, entertaining and the yacht
  • Membership in a prestigious golf club

What Does Rich Mean for a Rainforest Dweller

A rainforest dweller can of course be just as materialistic as a banker in London.
He won't own a yacht, because the possibility of acquiring one doesn't exist in his world. But despite the material component that shapes his life, because for example he has to go hunting and kill animals to feed his family, the spiritual plays a big role for him. He feels that his existence depends on the favor of the forest gods.
He would then answer the question ’what does rich mean‘ with the following key points:

  • The chance to catch plenty of fish every day
  • A fishing boat without a hole in it
  • Two beautiful and hard-working wives
  • A son who has taken over his hunting techniques and can therefore feed the family later.
  • A good relationship with the gods of the forest
  • Few floods