I am aware the problem is real. I reject the cause the story suggests.

The actual cause is most people think they're the good guys and should assert as much power as possible for their just actions. Rule of law is an exceptional condition for humankind. The default is rule by people who think they're right and fall somewhere on the spectrum of benevolent to malevolent dictators. They sell it ideology, but this is mostly bogus. Those armed guards harassing and stealing from people at a peaceful meeting aren't doing it for ideology. Using force to help the boss get his way is the default state for humankind when people, rather than the law, rule.