There is a lot of the problem. Non value added chuckleheads prorating to a project at top dollar.
Dump the dead wood, streamline the process.
Good point. I am fortunate; I produce something real.
The problem is, you've just described the average American office worker circa 2005 - already made redundant by the Information Revolution, adding no value, living in a house he can't afford and should never have been allowed to borrow from the bank, driving a leased luxury car, and thinking he is rich and successful.
The mental reset hasn't really hit yet (it takes at least 99 weeks now...) When it does, the economic consequences are going to be horrific.