The number is somewhat arbitrary, but it's enough money to spend most of your time doing what you want to do. Not enough to chase every whim, but enough that what you end up doing with the bulk of your time is a choice.
This is the saddest thing I've read recently
>> This is the saddest thing I've read recently
I read something sadder recently -- a mother in the US who was crying because she couldn't afford insulin for her child.
Seriously, sure, money doesnt solve all problems. But it sure as heck solves most problems. It adds others, but not as big as the ones it takes away.
(FYI, i've lived across the income spectrum thru my life from $10k/yr w/o healthcare to top 1%)