Often, income is incorrectly used as a proxy for self-worth. In particular, the potential monetary value of fame is often linked to successful people, making them think their worth is derived from their wealth rather than their character and achievements (which may be more important). This can leave them confused about their own happiness and purpose in life.
Society suffers, and children suffer, when people are poorly paid. If people are underpaid, they are less likely to work hard and will eventually become criminals. Low wages result in individuals feeling they don’t have the power to affect change in their lives and blame themselves for their troubles. Real-world consequences from this kind of thinking include early childhood deaths from starvation; substandard education; and wage theft — in which companies are accused of inappropriately withholding wages without working out a contract.