There's a simple term for this entire issue - evolution. Evolution does not mean good, or progress. It just means that traits that are beneficial to passing on

There's a simple term for this entire issue - evolution. Evolution does not mean good, or progress. It just means that traits that are beneficial to passing on one's genes will survive. Those that are harmful to passing on one's genes will tend to fade. This is self evident with genetics, but it's no less true with culture. Cultures that prioritize characteristics beneficial to their own survival and heritable reproduction will thrive. Those that don't, won't. We've created a society where people who recklessly reproduce with no concern for the consequences or anything except for themselves, will not starve and will mostly go unpunished for their awful decisions. At the same time those in the middle who are more educated and socially conscious tend to be much more cautious and judicious with reproduction. Even those on the top who are capable of 'responsibly' reproducing are increasingly choosing not to. This is going to lead to an interesting future...