[smtddr]

>>You don't need to live in the Bay Area. You don't need the best schools. You don't need fancy new tech toys. You don't even need US. You choose to be a part of the middle class in order to receive those luxuries.

I was with you until this part. You can't just tell people they don't need their current resident city or country or what schools they(or their children) need.

Running away from a problem is almost never the right solution.

[kolbe]

I'm pointing out that they're choices, not needs. They are things you can live without, and if you see a problem, and you feel strongly about changing the world, then you can sacrifice these luxuries.

And it is absurd to claim that I am advocating running away from a problem. I absolutely want you to tackle the problem head-on. But by voluntarily enriching the aristocracy, you are part of the problem. So I find it painfully hypocritical to complain about your bosses earning too much, while at the same time choosing to be their employee.

[stingraycharles]

I think the point he or she was trying to make is that you control your own happiness and shouldn't make that depend on things that are outside of your control.

I agree with that sentiment, it's the advice I generally give people who are in a bad situation. But if you look at it from the country's perspective it feels like avoiding the problem, and isn't a solution.