Seems like we get none of the benefit of all this high tech

Which shouldn't come as a surprise really. Those who believe they own us fund most of the research/own most of the patents. I lean towards it being more sinister with all the proof on how they do everything from experiment on us, throw us in prisons for participating in their schemes (like the war on drugs, yet they are probably the largest dealers in the world), etc. Then you have the rules for thee not for me like insider trading and other conflicts of interest that are excused for some (like politicians and their constituents), aiding violent crime lords such as Whitey Bulger, Sammy the Bull etc, setting up violent dictators throughout the world, using training centers such as the school of the Americas. The list is endless on why they might not have common folks interests at heart.