Actually I would say it is fairly common. The distortion of perception at work here, is between working hard and being successful or working hard and becoming Bill Gates.

Though it is true that it is becoming more difficult. Of course the only real long term remedies are transparency of govt and rule of law - which have both been breaking down at an accelerating rate in recent years.

For who could be free when every other man's humour might domineer over him? - John Locke (2nd Treatise, sect 57)