I don't think the possible irrationality of the situation refutes OP's point. Historically there are plenty of people happy to serve more powerful people for a

I don't think the possible irrationality of the situation refutes OP's point. Historically there are plenty of people happy to serve more powerful people for a small slice of privilege, especially when that privilege is backed by ideology or religion. Why were sharecroppers fighting the Confederacy's war? Why do employees feel loyalty toward their company for the free snacks? People's motivations are not economically rational.