There is a sub-group of these "things" out there that appear human, and can mimic human behavior sufficiently well to blend in. They can exploit the feelings of normal humans, especially the ones who do not understand that they are unfeeling exploiters of any and all around them.

Studies on this were first done decades ago. Psychopaths and sociopaths are particularly suited for success in the corporate and political realms.

somehow this reminded me that I've noticed new automobiles are looking increasingly aggressive and murderous

There seems to be a world wide trend in thinking that it's OK to scam, cheat and deceive because 'smart' folks wouldn't be taken in by the scams. A bit like 'buyer beware'.

I think it's extremely sad and an indictment of many human beings that they find this the right and honourable way to operate in their daily lives; take what you can because it's clever to fool people.

Decades ago, you could get ahead by being a hard worker and team player.

Today, that's not enough - to excel you have to either be truly gifted, extremely lucky, or a total bastard. More mouths fighting over the same crumbs.