I don't think it's so straightforward but I guess it depends on what societal structures we are comparing. Considering historical structures I would argue that

I don't think it's so straightforward but I guess it depends on what societal structures we are comparing. Considering historical structures I would argue that we currently live in a world much more open to various contributions. In the past you might have been locked down in a village doing fieldwork with no one even giving you the possibility of higher education. In some parts of the world this is still true. There is no way to tell how many hidden talents we lose right now to just toiling away with daily chores. In the western society I think things are much better. The problem we are facing is that if you want and have talent to contribute to a niche is "just" the question of who will finance you. This is indeed for many a showstopper but also many have found a way to push through. Then, after you have made the contribution, the problem is to convince others of the value. How many great ideas are lost to obscurity because some powers that be are stopping them? IMHO this is the bigger problem and perhaps this is what you are referring to? I would still say that the contribution had been made by then and, with time and a bit of optimism, those powers that be also erode and a contribution can come to life. Or, if it applies, launch a startup and disrupt the powers by yourself ;)