> forgot they were disposable laborers, and confused themselves for capitalists.

I agree with this, but it isn't just limited to software engineers. Most of the supposed "middle class" in the US fits this description.

We currently have the highest level of wealth inequality in history which is still growing at runaway rates and plenty of laborers who view themselves as "temporarily embarrassed billionaires" willing to prop up the system, seemingly unaware that those at the top will gladly wipe them off their boot when given the chance.