There are those who work to make it better for all

and those who will take advantage of those improvements to better themselves regardless of the impact; which will require a response by those still interested in making it better for all. Should those working to make it better for all, join those whose interest is hedonistic, human nature towards helping all helps oneself, will be set back. Will that happen? And if it does, what then for the rest of us. I tire trying to enlighten a wall.
When I retired from teaching, my melancholy was the unfinished canvass. At least, then, young minds could be impressed. Conversing with older protectionists keeps my wits active, but rote waves will take my sand castle down.
Perhaps, that's all there is.