“Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires.” -- John Stei

“Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires.” -- John Steinbeck Although I do not actually support socialism, I think this quote is one interesting take (of many) on the problem you've outlined. Edit: looks like someone beat me to it by one minute.