@dispatches I think that there need to be significant mainstream changes in technology around energy, water, and precious metal recovery for this to become a reality.

I think of a world not too dissimilar as the one described in the Star Trek universe, where basic needs are easily met through technology.

Once those needs are easily and sustainably met, people can then turn towards space exploration, art, literature, etc. At that point, I think some of the circumstances you describe would definitely be valid, but not until humanity's survival is assured through technological advancement.