But what if it isn't - at least for their purposes? That is, what if the remaining tax base, productive economy and overall military capabilities are no longer sufficient to provide them with the level of control & power they seek?
In other words, what if they believe there are other, greener pastures in which to nourish and advance a new corrupt kleptocracy? If this were the the case, then wouldn't they cede the dried, spent husk to those who still valued it?
Consider the last scene in the Road Warrior. The pilgrims sneak out, finally leaving the refinery to the thugs, who then triumphantly storm the facility just in time to experience their reward.
I know the analogy is flawed, in that in our case, the bad guys are those fleeing, leaving the flaming wreck to the rest of us. But, consider its application.
We have been blued, screwed & tattooed. What does a player do with a loose, stupid chick who is no longer attractive and/or interesting? Do they fight to retain the beat 'ho, or do they dump her and move on to something newer & prettier?
Brazil.