[e1g]

We like to see ourselves as good people doing good deeds. Nazis were bad, I would never do what they did - even if they won, and ruled the world. I am ethical and do what is right. Same with office politics, religion, donations etc - I will move towards/away what I evaluate as good/bad.

If I see wealth as corrupt evil and middle-class as a wholesome ethical alternative, I will strongly resist everything that creates wealth to reinforce my self-image and world view. If I see money as a powerful positive lever in life, I will relentlessly try to create a profitable venture because that re-inforces my positive self-image. It doesn't guarantee I will become wealthy, but not doing this guarantees I won't.