I think that what has primarily happened is that some fraction of capable people got married to the Malthain idea that there are to many humans and they need to be off'd if they cannot be controlled by various 'injunctive' measures. Of course, being capable they are able to control the thought patterns of many more (e.g., our friend Zarathustra here.)
The earth fell flat on it's promise to starve the masses out of existence. So far. The idea is so nice, though, that it is hard to part with. Various kinds of propaganda and other more concrete measures are called for. That they can increase the wealth and control already enjoyed by those who are the primary drivers of this thing probably contributes significant impulse to the project.
The ones who fell for this seem to think they won't be the ones culled. That is the most amusing aspect IMNSHO.
They actually think that by being on what they think it is righteous side of the issue, this saves them. As if being righteous suspends science, i.e. a form of confirmation bias.
Religion dies hard. Modern society successfully teaches them atheism, and they just can't resist the desire to be mind controlled by another form of barely obscured religion.
Any wonder why the elite call them cows or sheep?
Your problem tvbcof is the same as mine. How to not get culled along with them (or at least how to maximize good effort in this context)? I realize you probably feel the drama detracts from rationality but I could explain the same in more sober words if I was so inclined to invest the effort (I don't think it is worth my time, as people never change their minds).