The billionaires thought they were so smart.

[Irish_Dem]

3. I think both our theories are correct.

This is a multilayered phenomenon.

The American power elite and wealthy are absolutely not a one dimensional
group. I know for a fact for example that healthcare and academic elites
are naive and have tunnel vision. They probably never fathomed a dictator
would destroy them. Same with some of the other groups.

But yes of course, there are groups of the wealthy and powerful who
have definite escape plans. They know they have ruined the planet
and put humans at severe risk. They are buying up property in
various parts of the world they think will be safe. This is why they
are hoarding money at such an alarming rate. They know it is game over
and their last chance.

So I would say SOME of the wealthy are as you describe.
The rest of the power elite are too naive, smug, with tunnel vision.
Their narcissism actually hurt them. They could never envision
a world where they were not the top dogs.