Wealth is the ruin of mankind

'Do you know what will be the ruin of all mankind, Landretto?'

'No, but I will wager that you are about to tell me.'

'Look aound you at the villas, the palazzi, the laguna - feel the hum of life, listen to the laughter and the songs. Hardship will not be the ruin of man.'

'No?'

'No, 'said Pietro, 'for poverty does not breed envy.' He stretched his arms wide, his face grave. 'No, the ruin of mankind is wealth.'

(Excerpt from the book "The Dante Trap", written by Arnaud Delalande, Phoenix).

Not much needs to be added...