It's always fascinating reading about England's very complicated social class system. Other than the aristocracy being rich, does this still hold up today? Is there still inherent benefit from being a traditionally upper class family, even if they don't have generational wealth still?
Money is not central to the system: it is possible and even common to be in one of the middle classes with virtually no income. However this may not work for the upper class since lack of money would preclude taking part in many social occasions.
Whatever its actual merit and financial requirements for attendance, it is a symbol of aristocracy and class.
That it is (and similar institutions are) still massively over-represented in the life paths of the Great and Good is telling.