How Even Our Fictional Billionaires Fail Us

The world’s 10 richest billionaires have doubled their wealth since the COVID-19 pandemic started, in early 2020, with inequality now reaching “outrageous” levels, according to anti-poverty charity Oxfam. —CBS News

As the richest men in the world continue to hoard their wealth, a question arises: Is there such a thing as a moral male billionaire? Do we have any models from the world of fiction for how billionaires can effect positive change on our society? Unfortunately, as this list shows, the answer is no.

Bruce Wayne

Could focus on using his inheritance and foundation to completely revitalize Gotham City. Instead, decides to dress like a bat and beat people up.

Jay Gatsby

Could host lavish, elaborate parties for the élite as fund-raisers. Instead, hosts lavish, elaborate parties for the élite with the sole aim of getting the attention of his crush.

Oliver (Daddy) Warbucks

Could use his net worth of ten billion dollars to help keep the economy afloat during the Great Depression. Instead, has to be heavily convinced to adopt a single orphan. Also, goes by Daddy.

Mr. Monopoly

Could completely revamp the banking system and set a minimum basic income. Instead, sends people directly to jail.

Lex Luthor

Could do pretty much anything he wants with his billions. Instead, spends his life stalking a bespectacled local reporter.

C. Montgomery Burns

Could invest in making energy in Springfield affordable and accessible. Instead, hoards his money, lives at the top of a hill, and poorly manages a nuclear plant with seemingly no safety precautions in place.

Jabba the Hutt

Could easily help fund the Rebel Alliance for many years to come. Instead, spends his time watching people get eaten in various pits.

Charles Foster Kane

Could use his enormous fortune and influence to change the media landscape for the better. Instead, spends his life obsessed with a sled.

Tony Stark

Could spend some of his tremendous wealth on something other than weapons. Instead, is constantly taking part in battles that destroy entire city blocks.

Scrooge McDuck

Could turn every person in the world into a millionaire without making a dent in his own net worth. Instead, spends most of his time diving head first into his gold and ignoring his nephews.

Smaug

Could do literally anything with his sprawling treasure. Instead, just sits on top of it.