Newslish
ArchiveLesson #171Science

Study: Rich People Steal Children's Sweets

A new study shows that wealthy people are more likely to behave badly, including taking sweets meant for children.

Free · No ads

Pick your level

Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

A recent study has found that wealthy people are more likely to behave badly than those with less money. The researchers conducted that showed drivers often cut off other cars and ignore pedestrians at crossings. In one , volunteers were left alone with a jar of meant for children. When the researchers returned, upper-class participants had taken nearly twice as many candies as lower-class participants. This suggests that wealth can negatively affect social . The Ig Nobel awards celebrate unusual and humorous research that makes people laugh and think. This study is one of the winners this year, highlighting important social issues.

Lesson audio

Standard level

Tap to play

Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from The Guardian, 3 September 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Grammar in this story

The researchers conducted experiments that showed rich drivers often cut off other cars and ignore pedestrians at crossings.

Past tense narrative. Read the guide

Key vocabulary

  • prize noun

    an award given for achievement.

    She won a prize for her excellent performance.

  • behavior noun

    the way someone acts or conducts themselves.

    His behavior at the party was very friendly.

  • experiment noun

    a scientific test to learn something new.

    The scientist conducted an experiment to test her theory.

  • rich adjective

    having a lot of money or valuable resources.

    The rich man donated money to the charity.

  • sweets noun

    small candies or sugary treats.

    The children were excited to receive sweets at the party.

Quick quiz

01What does the study show about rich people?

02What does the word 'prize' mean in the text?

03What did rich people do in the experiment with sweets?

04What did the study find about rich drivers?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

The study shows that rich people are more likely to take sweets from children. Do you think wealth affects behavior? In your answer, use the words 'prize' and 'behavior'.