We need to stop idolizing billionaires

LinkedIn is rife with posts idolizing Elon Musk, Bezos, Bloomberg, Gates, and Warren Buffett, among other billionaire oligarchs.

Success isn’t inherently bad, and yes, some of these figures have made meaningful contributions. But turning them into untouchable icons is dangerous—for us, for society, and for democracy itself.

Why is this dangerous?

1. It distorts reality:
   Billionaires are products of systems that perpetuate inequality. Idolizing them glosses over structural issues that helped them succeed while leaving others behind.
   What systems do you think make this extreme level of wealth accumulation possible—and at what cost?
   Even when you think structures of power, merit, and reward need to be maintained, how much do you think is too much? When does it go too far?
   How can you adopt a "Growth with intention" mindset that considers the connected impact of your wealth, products, services, and systems that lead to it instead of a "Growth at all cost" mentality?
2. It gives up political influence:
   The more we elevate oligarchs, the more we accept their disproportionate influence in shaping public policy. When wealth equals power, democracy can be casually pushed aside and eroded, and decisions are made to serve the few, not the many.
   If wealth can so easily shape our collective future, who will be left behind, and what will we lose?
   If the rich can so easily back entire political parties and campaigns with impunity despite known cultural and economic impact of those parties, what protections for society need to be in place?
3. It misplaces credit:
   Behind every "self-made billionaire" are countless employees, advisors, and systems that made their success possible. Celebrating one person erases the contributions of thousands.
   Whose work, behind the scenes, are we forgetting when we give all credit to one person?
   If you're the CEO, president, or in another position of power at a successful organization, do you take all the credit or raise up others who contributed to your joint success when you're in the spotlight?
4. It justifies inequality:
   Idolization leads us to believe that wealth or fame = moral authority or intelligence. This narrative can excuse unethical behaviour, exploitation, or decisions that harm society.
   What happens when we confuse wealth or fame with wisdom?
   What's the worst that could happen?

What’s the alternative?

1. Uplift community role models:
   Let’s focus on leaders prioritizing people over profit, like educators, activists, healthcare workers, and social entrepreneurs rebuilding the social fabric every day.
   Who in your community inspires you with their quiet dedication?
   Who do you know that helps build positive communities?
2. Celebrate collective effort:
   The best innovations and societal advancements happen through teamwork, community, and collaboration—not the lone genius myth. Highlight the unsung heroes in your network.
   What incredible stories go untold while we focus on the "icons"?
3. Champion servant leadership:
   Look to leaders who solve big problems with empathy—those who enable and empower others, build communities, and work toward equity, not just personal success.
   Who are the leaders that make others feel seen and supported?
   How can you celebrate and support those you see enabling and empowering others?
4. Focus on sustainable systems:
   Push for organizations and policies that distribute power and wealth more equitably, ensuring long-term social and economic health.
   What would a fairer, more sustainable system look like—and how can we start building it?
5. Redefine success:
   Success isn’t about amassing billions—it’s about creating meaningful, lasting impact. Let’s celebrate those who build schools, clean water systems, mental health programs, and pathways to opportunity. Let's solve real problems.
   What level of wealth do you think you need to truly be successful and happy? What would you do with the rest?
   What kind of legacy would you want to leave behind?

Values, not wealth or fame

When we idolize billionaires, we give them cultural permission to influence our political systems unchecked and continue reinforcing systemic inequality.

Instead, let’s elevate role models who inspire connection, inclusion, and equity—the kind of people who remind us that greatness is measured by the good we do for others—not by our net worth or time in the spotlight.

Let’s admire values, not wealth. Let’s celebrate those restoring the social fabric, not those profiting from its fraying edges.

Who inspires you in your life to think differently, act boldly, or care deeply?

How will you build positive change and impact in your communities?

Recommended further consumption

1. "How Billionaires Are Hijacking Our Democracy—And How We Can Resist Them", Carrie N. Baker, Ms. Magazine
2. "The Roots of The Stupidity Pandemic," Mr Brain on Youtube
3. "Socrates' Secret to EXPOSING Fools," The Machiavellians on Youtube
4. "How Humble Leadership Really Works," Dan Cable, HBR
5. "Why Servant Leadership Is More Important Than Ever," Palena Neale, Ph.D, PCC, Forbes
6. "The Surprising Power of Questions: It goes far beyond exchanging information." by Alison Wood Brooks and Leslie K. John
7. "Join Or Die," On Netflix
8. "oligarchy," Encyclopedia Britannica

Next on my own reading list

• "Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right", Jane Mayer
• "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community," Robert D. Putnam
• "The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again," Robert D. Putnam

This post has been months in the making as I continue to work on a tabletop roleplaying game based on oligarchs and wealth inequality. It has also helped me to work at an organization that aims to save people money and chip away at wealth inequality, keeping the thought front and center. An abridged version of this post has been shared to LinkedIn if you'd like to quote it, share, or leave a reaction.