Opinion: Today’s superrich are exceptionally selfish, a historian argues

They may not be doing themselves any favors.

View in browser|nytimes.com Continue reading the main story December 3, 2023 The wealthiest members of Western societies have traditionally helped foot the bill during major crises. Today's superrich are reneging on that responsibility, the economic historian Guido Alfani writes in Times Opinion. FROM OPINION Bendik Kaltenborn What happens next isn't pretty, he argues. Read the guest essay. → Sign up for the Opinion Today newsletter Get expert analysis of the news and a guide to the big ideas shaping the world every weekday morning. Get it in your inbox Continue reading the main story ADVERTISEMENT Continue reading the main story Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times. To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018