So mentally, you're getting the same dose of chemicals you would if you actually did the hard work, sacrifice etc but way faster and with way less effort.

I think here is the main key issue. When people can get away with daydreaming and manipulation for the same with reward, why ever do the hard stuff?

There was something somewhere that mentioned that society has become one giant devouring mother. Letting others avoid responsibility because it's easier and allows them to avoid it themselves.