Might also be that Star Trek takes place in a universe where only AFTER massive wars and near extinction does humanity set aside its short-sightedness and cruel

Might also be that Star Trek takes place in a universe where only AFTER massive wars and near extinction does humanity set aside its short-sightedness and cruelty to embrace egalitarianism. Within the Star Trek universe, there is no history of science outpacing human damage. They barely save themselves from the brink.