The question is irrelevant, they could all have Phds in deep learning and transistor design. But that doesnt seem to be the reason this man is depicting himself as validated in this portrayal. Anyways, I almost regret making this comment because of all the feedback. Sorry I pointed out the authors specific comments on how he DOES NOT see a correlation between the depiction of a man who shows off wealth and women as a quiet life of desperation.

As for me, the loudest and most pompous people in the room I always question their security and happiness the most. If you are so happy, why do you need to show it off to everyone else? Do you need validation from people? That's kind of my initial reaction to men like this.

As far as hedonistic behavior. I really have no opinions on what two (or more if that floats your boat) people do as long as its consensual. The issue was not whether the fact of having a jet or flying in one is wrong, or having around multiple women in bikinis on your jet flights is wrong or shallow or hedonistic, the issue is why show it off to everyone? what are you trying to prove?

Desperation = maybe seeking self validation from other people or these things which in their own form are fine and all but not going to help with your quiet life of desperation and they certainly don't antiquate the possibility of it, which is exactly what his author seemed to not understand.