If I understand your current question correctly you're asking about desire towards vs impact of financial reward related to work.

If you look at Herzberg's 2 factor theory you could conclude that financial gain is a work hygiene issue. Pay is not a strong motivating factor until it does not reach market or personally assessed value. On the other hand, promotion provides an intrensic variable of success that motivates individuals. Also, if you look at Maslow' s Hierarchy the money based issues are on the base while self-actualization and social status are much higher on the pyramid.

Keeping this in mind most will find a higher degree of self-effacacy in a higher position vs a pay raise.

I can understand the confusion I had the same question. I would always go for more pay but when I realized what a Title can provide it changed my whole perspective. In life there are people who understand how influence has more power than money. Yes, it is true that money can buy you anything you want or need. Money can even bring people into your life who want to be your friend, business partner, or “mentor”.
Unfortunately if that money runs out and people find that the people that would once do anything for them begin to slowly fade away. But when wise people begin to seek influence, to build rapport, and to create a relationship with people in and outside of work. These are the people who know where their friends mind and hearts are.
Having influence can also help create a pull, but honestly if you want to learn more and how give me a call.