"the constant barrage of scandulous behavior of the wealthy both in the US and Europe" - Captain Audio
Not so sure about the historical accuracy of your point, Captain. I would suggest that the behaviour of many politicians and law enforcement agents pre. 1900 in most western countries could be considered deplorable by modern standards.
It's correct, I believe, that political corruption and downright gangsterism were regular occurrences in big American cities and in the U.K. corruption was rife in politics and everyday life, especially as the vote was limited and the majority of the population, up to and including the industrial revolution, lived very difficult lives in considerable poverty with no help from the politicians. Even in the early part of the 20th century, the poverty and disgraceful living conditions of millions of citizens in our British cities was a national shame. There were many good people, but not enough, unfortunately, who were prepared to campaign and risk their"reputations" to correct some of the problems. I would cite Wesley, Robert Peel, the Salvation Army. I'd give more examples but it's a long time since I did my history higher and age isn't helping my memory.