You know, that's the response a lot of people have when they hear of Bill Gates' or Warren Buffet's donations. But the truth is, they are unique. Billionaires don't all give their money away. In fact, very few.
I personally know a few people worth 5-50 million and they are giving most of their money away either right now or when they die. So at least on a personal level that is not true. Those that I know - are not in the tech industry and they are not living on the coasts. I think this changes the mindset a bit. They are normal successful people.
I think you'd be surprised how many executives and owners give their money away. I'm talking about executive management in fortune 1000 companies and small business owners. The ones that aren't in the limelight and don't have anything to prove. They choose their most meaningful causes and make a difference there. From my experience most of successful people I know are responsible and understanding of their success and wealth.
Now that doesn't mean there isn't a small minority that are a bunch of jags - but it does mean the silent majority is exactly that - silent.
