Lucid, precise and spot on is what immediately comes to mind when I read your essay.

What has become of us, each and all. herded or not, when we can think beyond emotions. And self interest being what extrinsically calls for power and its derivative, cash in the bank [ or suitcase or wallet] being better than not, while all else dies. Yes, a death of a thousand cuts as the fraud persists, one lie after another until a single voice from the shadows, like yours Steve QJ, whispers into the darkness. And anther then another takes heed.

Stay the course, we covet your voice.