This post is too long. But the first half is good and I like it. and my answer to your question "why isn't there a more cohesive opposition to this system?"
This is why: Because we, the sheeple, have a lot to learn in regard of how we should evaluate /appreciate things.
For example if Hollywood go on strike for 10 thousand years not much would be affected. If garbage bickers, police or fire fighters go on strike for days, federal government will declare martial law. But look at the paycheck difference. Why would you expect celebrities would join such an opposition ?