I’d probably agree with you. I have my own caste system. The guys running the machines actually generate revenue by adding value. Everything else is overhead. Actually my grandfather who ran a shipyard in WW2 taught me the rules of economics. You create wealth by growing food, mining minerals, or making product. New ideas are a separate form of wealth, but a transitory way. ( exceptions the wheel, fire, and the alphabet, which let’s you inventory ideas.)
Sounds like your grandfather was wise.