There's been an interesting trend to present the economy as a morality play

That's hardly a trend - it's the foundation of all neoclassical posturing.

Rich people are inherently good. They can do no wrong and must be rewarded for 'their' success, without limit.

Poor people are inherently bad, and must be punished for 'their' failure.

There's some stuff about prices and trading and such, but that's just wrapping paper.