This image, from This Website shows the distribution of US Wealth for 2009, using data from the Economic policy institute. It shows that the top 1% of income earners own 35% of the wealth in the United States, while the bottom 80% own merely 12.8%. However, we have to ask ourselves, what are the effects of this? I believe that there are both positive and negative aspects of these alarming statistics.
Clearly the bottom 80% are not going to live as comfortably as the top 1%, maybe sacrificing luxury items to provide for basic needs. Additionally, many families in the bottom 80% may have both parents working instead of just one. However, the 80% could not survive without the top 1%. The top 1% are those who grow companies and provide jobs for the bottom 80%. Without the top 1% or even the top 20%, we would all be 80%-ers.
Should we try to equalize the distribution of wealth in the United States? I believe the answer to that is no, as inevitably life is going to be "unfair" and there are going to be those who own a vast majority of the wealth - it's unavoidable. But are there things we can do to help minimize the differences between the wealthy and the poor in the classroom? I believe that's a yes! As educators we should treat every student fairly, and not give priority to one student over another based on their socio-economic status.
I am a 2nd year teacher and I definitely agree that we need to help minimize the differences when it comes to wealth in the classroom. I try to always make sure that I have extra supplies for those who may not be able to provide them for themselves.
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