I definitely see where you are coming from, and I personally wouldn't recommend "formal" actions like regulation or unionization. I've been considering my opti

I definitely see where you are coming from, and I personally wouldn't recommend "formal" actions like regulation or unionization. I've been considering my options lately and the more I think about it, the more I hear "contracting" as one of the better ways to make liveable money without losing control over your working conditions + dialogue with client(s). When you have constant, daily interaction with middle managers who are trying to become VPs or whatever, it can be extremely grating. Workplace politics, policies, and appearances are all created by these people so that they can protect their jobs and future bonuses. So, perhaps consulting + contracting will create a barrier between you and the middle managers. They're forced to work with you more collaboratively because the CEO signs the checks on this one (hopefully), not the individual department you work for. But yeah, out of the thousands of corporations and startups of all ages, industries, and sizes, I bet only 10% or less have an efficient, enjoyable, and equitable experience between low-ranking employees and their layers of management. That's what is causing all the job-hopping and attempts to "trade-up" ;)