Why do people always count someone else's dollars?

Many people believe the almighty dollar defines everything about an individual and this can flow into jealousy and resentment, if they feel they have less than. While someone's earnings is socially regarded as private, many people try to look for public signals about someone's wealth, this leading to speculation and assumption.

competition is keen in today's lifestyles and economy. So it's human nature to be nosey. It's the sensible person that diverts their questions to something more sensible.