The thing is: you've already got the means of production. You have a computer, your brain (the real core of software production), and the whole universe of open source / Free software out there.

What people actually want is VC money salaries without having to pay the VC piper's price, which is more of a problem.

(AI has changed this somewhat, because it's so energy-intensive that it's become a capital asset. And of course we have to consider the monopolistic nature of software markets.)

Most people don’t have this, but engineers do and we should be the last people complaining. We get paid well enough to save up and start a small company and take on the risk.

The Borg can buy you out, but don’t give them your soul. The world is a better place with more entrepreneurs and new businesses. That part is on us.

How is going into business for oneself supposed to shorten your workday and decrease the number of fires you're putting out?

Reminds me of an oldie but a goodie- The Onion Weather Report - Revolt Forecasted https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJwHZVl5Buk

I assume you're joking, but I do think wealth inequality is a major driver of this.

I remember my sophomore year of college.