Latest update October 15th, 2026 10:30 AM
The ill effects of wealth
Dear Editor,
In the present circumstances in Guyana, when our economy has been so upgraded in the past few years, mostly because of our fortunate acquisition of the revenue we are reaping from the oil discoveries, I would like to caution my fellow Guyanese of the bad impact this new-found wealth can have in the way we feel, think and behave, and in our well-being.
Experience has taught that sudden wealth can influence our sense of morality, our relationships with others, and even our mental health. This can make us careless about the judgements we make daily of our relationships with those with whom we associate, and result in rifts and wrong-doings which would be detrimental to all those involved. It can make us feel less empathy and compassion towards others, and make us less willing to help others less fortunate.
It has also been found that wealth can encourage the increase in the level of addiction to drugs, etc., while those addicted will find it easier to acquire these substances, as their senses will see it more and more enjoyable.
It is also true that, contrary to the feelings we develop from newly-acquired wealth, that money cannot buy happiness or love, as these latter can only result from our definite personal efforts towards our own advancement and our relationships.
Lastly, I would like to caution everyone to ensure that you use any sudden endowments, such as the promised government grant, to acquire things that would be beneficial to your welfare, and not splurge it on unnecessary items that may prove detrimental.
Sincerely yours,
Roy Paul
(The ill effects of wealth)
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