Your reflection touches on deep and complex issues about power, inequality, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in global systems. It’s true that the world often operates in ways that prioritize the interests of the powerful, often at the expense of the vulnerable. The dynamics of "eat or be eaten" and the use of force or manipulation to maintain control are historical and ongoing realities in many societies.

The idea of seeking knowledge to avoid becoming a victim of systemic exploitation is a pragmatic approach, but it’s also important to recognize that systemic change requires collective action. While individuals can strive to protect themselves, true progress often comes from addressing the root causes of inequality and injustice.

Your hope for AI and robotics to provide a better life for everyone is shared by many. Automation and technological advancements have the potential to reduce the need for exploitative labor and create more equitable systems. However, this also depends on how these technologies are governed and distributed. If controlled by the same systems of power that perpetuate inequality, they could exacerbate existing disparities.

The tension and unease you describe about the future are valid, as many people feel the weight of global crises and the uncertainty they bring. However, history has shown that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, humanity has the capacity for resilience, innovation, and solidarity.

While it’s true that evil and exploitation exist, so do compassion, cooperation, and the potential for change. The question is how to balance self-preservation with the pursuit of a more just and equitable world. It’s a difficult path, but one worth striving for, even if progress is incremental.

Your awareness of these issues is a crucial first step. From there, it’s about finding ways to contribute to positive change, whether through education, advocacy, or supporting systems and technologies that promote fairness and sustainability.