There have been periodic golden ages that tend to last the lifetime of an enlightened ruler - many in ancient China for example. In modern times these periods tend to happen when tech breakthroughs produce widespread benefits until someone figures out how to withhold them and charge rent for them.
That’s certainly one possible outcome, but hardly the best.
When has humanity ever been led by those who would choose the best outcome?
There have been periodic golden ages that tend to last the lifetime of an enlightened ruler - many in ancient China for example. In modern times these periods tend to happen when tech breakthroughs produce widespread benefits until someone figures out how to withhold them and charge rent for them.