They may be, but the humans that operate them haven't changed ;) Why did the Philosopher-Kings fail? I don't believe it was on account of being compromised. People are too susceptible to envy, jealousy, hatred, etc., etc. Then, as is today. And they are easily manipulated in times of economic strife. All in all, you and I probably agree in the end. I was just stating my preference, not making any claim of what would work in these modern times. I see no solution.

People want to get along. But they don't really want to work together on the common good.