It's inherent in hierarchical command structures, especially with advancement (and therefore politics). From a game theory perspective, groups are incentivized

It's inherent in hierarchical command structures, especially with advancement (and therefore politics). From a game theory perspective, groups are incentivized to advertise (and hopefully popularize) their positions. Individuals are then incentivized to align and advertise their allegiance with either popular or up-and-coming positions. The end result... exactly what we see. (And it's not like this isn't present in tech via cargo cultism either)