This was fascinating.
And honestly? I read it twice, which has to be some kind of record for me.
I think it's because @Denmarkguy and I were discussing "The Resource Curse" earlier today and the caste system in many countries. I think there's a caste system in most cultures, whether or not it's officially recognized.
Here's a Wiki link to the "Resource Curse" I referenced.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_curse
Normally, if we have plenty we become lazy. In a way, we behave to protect our wealth. There you can't expect any kind of growth, innovation or exchange of knowledge. Because these resources are 'inherited' naturally not acquired by hard work. You can't avoid it. That's what cripples the nation-states of Middle East.