Born Rich
After watching the movie Born Rich, what do think of Jamie Johnson’s portrayal of the top 1 percent of wealthy or soon-to-be wealthy heirs (and who are they)? How does the uber rich elite differ in their lives from other classes in the US in terms of lifestyle, education, and occupation? What is it (besides making ‘evocative documentaries) that they do? As the textbook states, “an inherited fortune brings power”. Describe ‘power’ as sociologist Max Weber would, and determine, how does power figure into one’s socio-economic status overall? Do you believe, as the text surmises, that one-day such young people will shape the political and economic climate of the future? How do you feel about their own issues and problems? Is everything, including being wealthy, all relative to one’s life? How do you see them (e.g., do you feel sorry for them? Disgusted? Ambivalent? Jealous? Empathetic? Angry? Sad?, etc.)? Distinguish between wealth and income and look at how prestige is also a mitigating factor in their lives. Essays should be between 500-750 words (approx. 3-5 double-spaced pages). Please watch the movie in its entirety. Your essay should contain examples, quotes and scenarios from the film and explanations from the textbook. Remember to properly cite.
