The world’s richest man, Elon Musk, has started a fresh debate online after lending his voice to the long-standing argument that money alone does not guarantee happiness.
The Tesla and SpaceX chief executive shared the view in a brief post on Wednesday, writing, “Whoever said ‘money can’t buy happiness’ really knew what they were talking about.”
The comment quickly attracted attention, with many readers interpreting it as a rare reflection on the emotional limits of immense wealth.
Within hours, the post had amassed more than 33 million views and over 245,000 likes, sparking extensive discussion about whether financial success automatically translates into personal well-being.
In Nigeria, the statement drew cultural parallels, particularly to Adekunle Gold’s 2021 song It Is What It Is, in which the singer reflects on the realization that wealth does not necessarily bring fulfillment.
The lyrics echo a similar sentiment about the gap between financial gain and emotional satisfaction.
Reactions online were sharply divided. Some users agreed with Musk, arguing that while money may ease hardship, it does not eliminate emotional struggles.
One commenter noted that money may not buy happiness but can make difficult circumstances more bearable. Others strongly disagreed, pointing to the psychological strain of poverty and financial insecurity.
Several responses questioned Musk’s perspective given his extraordinary wealth, with some suggesting that even a fraction of his fortune would dramatically improve their lives.
Faith-based opinions also emerged, with commenters arguing that true fulfillment comes from spiritual values rather than material possessions.