I don't have sources, but I've read before, repeatedly, of this being noted.

I believe there may even be some economic, sociological, psychological, anthropological studies to this effect.

As I recall, one argument is that a lack of resources requires greater cooperation.

Or, people without portable, fungible wealth, are required to trade and cooperate with those in their immediate vicinity.

However, I feel all this misses the heart of the matter: Human connection.

One way in which the "modern" world often feels increasingly sterile.

Though that human connection works both ways: Great kindness, and great exploitation. Though the latter may be limited both by geographic reach and the ability of local society to simply "cut you out" should your transgressions exceed the pain of doing so.

Personally, in the "middle class" here in the U.S., I have struggled for that connection. I've found it with select friends I've made over the years, but not with neighbors. A few neighbors respond kindly, but many are indifferent and a few outright hostile.

They know what it's like to not have enough, imo

I wonder if part of the story might be that Americans (and really most wealthy countries) have a tendency to feel like they've "done their part" through taxes. And since the rates are progressive, you not only contribute more in dollars, you actually contribute a larger portion of your income the more you make, so wealthier people actually are "giving more". Surely this has an effect on the culture.

Contrast the 33% tax bracket in America @ $190k (then you add on medicare taxes and social security and state taxes which would be about 10% in California) with Hong Kong's maximum of 15%. I don't know what it's like in the country in Asia you come from.