Why does our society favor smart/evil/rich over average but good?

Sad but true. This has been going on since the dawn of man. It's our inherent flaw, we're human, and thusly have human frailties such as greed and jealousy. The reason these people can maintain their status is because there is always someone willing to look the other way for a price. Money always seems to have the loudest voice. I would like to think that I am above reproach, but the sad truth is, that given enough money I would probably help to propigate the status quo. At least I'm willing to be honest with myself about it. In point of fact if I was one of the "haves" then I would probably be doing the same thing.