I think it's called corruption. Most working folks trusted that rational people were in charge and a duty to the greater good would be more powerful than self-i

I think it's called corruption. Most working folks trusted that rational people were in charge and a duty to the greater good would be more powerful than self-interest. I gather this sort of thing has happened before: http://www.rome.info/history/empire/fall/ http://www.rome.info/history/empire/fall/