I've done political activism...
...and succeeded. Great things can be accomplished with shoe leather, volunteer labor and many, many $15 -$25 donations.
If people are motivated, they can affect things.
If, in your world, people are unmotivated, then money will rule.
You say I am naive, but I have seen results. I say you don't want to believe it's true because then you'd have to accept responsibility for inaction.
You may have the last word if you want it. Having talked to/past you all these years, I know you do. :)