Aside from a few who are mathematically impaired most people in trending are aware that they are not making money, quite the opposite, but they are getting the attention they wanted so there lies the food for their egos.
I know politics is a word tinged with all shades of corruption but it seems to be a field no thinker should avoid for to long. I think this little battle you've engaged in has its merit and as you have rightfully pointed out its these types of conversations that are beginning to shift the tide.
Let's see what the future holds for us...
Politics has become a dirty word even though all engage in it, even if passively.
At least, it keeps life here interesting ;)