And now people argue blocking certain network elements from loading on a website is "piracy"

Its frankly disappointing how passified most internet users have gotten with regard to corporate BS in recent years

Well, when certain users have behplden themselves and their creature comforts to the corporate teat, that is expected to happen. Somehow, I doubt most Youtubers actually have the chops to set up their own hosting/streaming operation, plus maintain relationships with advertisers who pay their bills.

Does it not make sense then, that when such people have their livelihood threatened by the Ur-Intetnet ethos, that they turn against it?

I don't condone or support it, but I can understand how the shift has happened.