If people didn't constantly use the monetary value of a company as the sole determinant of whether it brought about societal progress, I'd think of it as something to enjoy.

But that's what we use and it's not getting better. It's getting worse. It's not just OpenAI either, but that's a fairly prominent example that's germane here.

Reality forces us into 0% free time. Not much choice.

Oh, there is a lot of choice. If you take on a lot of responsibilities (kids) and have a need for material wealth, then yes. I could have worked just 50% or even 25%% and would have been fine. I would not be able to own much, but I would be fine.