The traditional slave of history has faded at least in the west although pockets may still be found even in these “enlightened” times.
But a new “class” of slave has emerged – and what is horrifying is that they have arisen through their own personal pleasure! I would think some 90% or more of any given population owes money to banks; I do not mean for housing or such, but for their “pleasurable” activity of buying – what I call the “gimme, gimme” syndrome. I have written on this topic before and I must be honest and say that I have noticed a marked reluctance to move down this avenue of catastrophic spending and for that I am delighted. People are beginning to realise the necessity to save.
Nevertheless the fact remains that the vast majority are 21st Century slaves – slaves to the banks (and bankers) who now have control over the destinies of so many. And as a mark of their “success” these “captains of industry” award themselves enormous salaries and bonuses. I am appalled by HOW they perceive they deserve them.
I have no problem with people earning high salaries or even being paid bonuses. BUT I do want to place on record the fact that such bonuses cannot be awarded on the strength of their financial success in numerical terms, but on the amount of good they have done to homeowners, companies and others. This type of measurement will highlight the good, the bad and the ugly – the moreso if it comes DIRECTLY from those affected by the decisions bankers make. In other words, if you want a bonus, show how you have helped others.
I guess this will make me highly unpopular with the finance industry, but to quote from a more famous source “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn”.
Until next time (and never a slave),
Peripatetic Scribe
P.S. a good blog. The thought of bankers being paid bonuses on the degree of "good" they do to others is excellent (can't see them allowing it to happen mind you). My local bank manager in Christchurch is one to whom I WOULD give a bonus - he has given enormous assistance to many in the local community. Great ideas.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous - thanks for your comment. I believe something could be enacted in such a way as to make it "palatable" to the finance industry. I am interested in your local comment - was his "good" done before the earthquake or after - or both? Whichever, you are most fortunate. P.S.
ReplyDelete