Yep.. They have been cheated.. Look at the debate about healthcare.. The working class have been convinced that they don't deserve univeral healthcare or maternity leave.
Could it be something like an ingrained ideology with them? Maybe something equivalent to the abortion issue in which they refuse to take a modified approach due to religious dogma. Something very peculiar drives them to act in reverse of their better interests.
There's little doubt but I'm about at a complete loss as to why they will allow it to continue to happen. In any case, your ideas are like a breathe of fresh air. Maybe as ideas come to us we'll be able to revisit the topic.
Maybe this goatfuck forum isn't a place for finding any answers?