I had a further thought... Whatever the failings of feudalism and royalty from centuries past, there at least was a system in place for the elites to train the

I had a further thought... Whatever the failings of feudalism and royalty from centuries past, there at least was a system in place for the elites to train the next generation of elites. The goal was to teach them how to rule, how to maintain their power base, and so on. A tradition to carry on, because they all knew they wouldn't be around forever. We live in such chaotic times now. There is no tradition, no body of knowledge and custom to guide the elites of our society now. Now they do whatever the heck they want, with seemingly little regard for their own family's future, much less the fate of society in general.