>Srdjan, I agree that the perceived rising wealth in recent years was an illusion for most. However, another analysis is that the rich are greedier than ever, more even than during the notoriously greedy '20s. In the prosperous 1970s the top 10% of society took about 33% of the national US income. By 2009 that had risen to 47% and is now well over 50%. Also, in the Reagan era the top 0.01 percent took about 1% of income; by 2007 they were taking 6% and rising fast. The amazing thing is that even with copious history to guide them on the likely consequences, these people seem determined to keep taking.

Ha! That's redistribution!

Down with them! Where's Ayn Rand when we most need her? She'd just frown at any sign of redistribution and they would all just crawl back under their stones.