Even something like West Wing and its ...interesting... take on the presidency was aspirational for the GS-9s of the 90s who could see an example of "good governance" and feel like they were making a difference in their own alienating jobs. People need the heroic myths.

Even Atticus needed to be appointed to do the right thing. It's not an efficient system that those with privilege sometimes need prodding before sticking their necks out for the marginalized, but sometimes people need that instruction. Some people need that kick in the butt that reveals injustice.