I have some doubts about the conclusions drawn from this study. But it does fit my observations of pre-Islamic Arabia (see my biography of Muhammad), where a suddenly-rising income gap between rich and poor during the generation or two just prior to the birth of Muhammad seems to have led — curiously — to a relative neglect of widows, orphans, and the poor that is repeatedly condemned in the Qur‘an:
http://www.psmag.com/business-economics/economic-inequality-dampens-generosity-of-wealthy
Whatever the merits of the study, we must absolutely not allow our privilege to dull our sense of charity. And certainly not, of all times, at this season of the year.
Please consider giving to charity and humanitarian relief during the next month. Even if it’s very small.
Posted from Madrid, Spain