I haven't read Awakening, but it sounds interesting. Odd that I haven't heard of it.
With regards to the abuse of authority, I agree. I honestly think many of the founding fathers would agree as well and is why the system is set up like it is. Now we have a problem with those in authoirty flaunting the system and lemmings endorsing their lawlessness - but that is a rabbit hole.
I'll add that I agree that most people are not "shit" but good people. I think the number ends up being about 94% good and 6% bad. That 6% number corresponds with the estimated number of sociopaths and narcissists in our midst.