is civilization locked into the "myth of progress" or, by living in civilization, is an individual's incentives (professional, financial, cultural, social) just

is civilization locked into the "myth of progress" or, by living in civilization, is an individual's incentives (professional, financial, cultural, social) just more likely to be aligned with technology-centric and business-oriented practices? i don't think the issue is that we, as a society, are collectively choosing a path that may further erode personal liberties, societal cohesion, and maybe even personal happiness. it's just that rewards are positioned in such a way that many people, especially young and educated, will generally move toward that direction.