I agree with most of what you're saying, but I'm not buying that these things (peace, environmental action, science investment, etc) aren't happening because the masses are being stymied by the powers that be.

On the contrary, I don't see the masses caring about these things at all. Do you?

I don't see the majority of the people demanding action against (or even acknowledging the existence of) climate change.

Nor do I see them demanding action against endless war or illegal surveillance.

Nor do I see them begging for more money to be invested in science.

Instead I see the people sometimes arguing about a few hot-button political issues, but mostly I see the people preoccupied with pop culture and their daily lives.

We, the People, have made it abundantly clear that we are fine with the status quo. No one had to coerce us.

Remember, the Iraq War was not started over the outcry of the American people.

It was started to thunderous applause.