[kafkaesq]

I wouldn't call them "fools".

They're just vested in a system which (seem to) promise some semblance of security and (a feeling of) group belonging, in exchange keeping their heads down, and their nose to the grindstone -- and not rocking the boat, generally.

It's a trap that's very, very easy to fall in. Especially if you have people who depend on you -- you know, kids, older family members -- that sort of thing.