This is called a "pyramid scheme." As mentioned below, "corporate America." The few at the top succeed at the expense of the many on the bottom who fail.
Sounds more like unfettered capitalism to me.
In my business (hospital), about four years ago, when Medicare was cut, benefits were cut. Now we get glowing emails from the CEO about how profitable we are. Benefits remain cut.
"This can't be a job. If this were really a job, I would get raises, bonuses and promotions."