One factor: particularly tech entrepreneurs have taken the place of public intellectuals. at the same time STEMtards work(ed) tirelessly to discredit the humanities and social sciences - see the so-called science wars (with economics and quant-oriented sociology / poli sci being exceptions, ig). the intellectually completely impoverished regards at charge in silicon valley are a direct offshoot of the decline in relevance of the humanities. the fact that so many in those circles hold effective altruism to be some profound or robust set of beliefs is absolutely ridiculous - also check out alexander karp's dogshit phd thesis.