Are the rich compatible with democracy? Should we accept such a high degree of inequality in our society? Does the profit system glorify greed? In /Are the Rich Necessary?/ Hunter Lewis presents the most fundamental and provocative economic arguments that underlie society. Lewis connects economics directly with profound contemporary social issues. How are our personal values reflected in these issues and how do we choose between contending economic approaches? Most importantly, can philanthropy play a strategic role in helping people to lift themselves from poverty? Lewis offers a dramatic new proposal to significantly increase contributions to charitable organizations to help address key social issues. A challenging and sure to be influential book.