[troutwine]

> From the highest levels to the lowest levels, power dynamics decide how things are.

Even granting this premise, which I don't, the interpretation you are operating under -- all but the 1% or 10% or whatever get get crushed -- is not realistic. Folks live happy, contented lives today in community with others. Many species other than human care for the elderly or their sick and long-term disabled. Keeping with the evolutionary model why would altruism continually evolve into species without utility?

I guess, on a personal note, I hope things improve for you.