I get the same general feeling, and I try not to be too paranoid about it.
I think it has a lot to do with the instrumentality capitalism wants from its participants -- and we seem to want to use science to make us better cogs rather than better humans. Its a pretty old idea stemming from the industrial revolution -- it just seems that today we're more 'loosely coupled' into the system which gives us just enough of an illusion of freedom. e.g. you can choose a job, but you can't choose not to have a job, you can speak freely, but you'll be monitored etc.
Because of this I have recently had a resurgence of volunteerism and religious soul seeking. I've found it refreshing that these two arenas seek earnestly to humanize through giving.
Volunteerism and giving is great, but religion's purpose is to co-opt and channel these altruistic impulses to make people believe that good things can only come from religion (historically linked to the state). You still see this brainwashing today, with people believing that atheists cannot be moral, or that religion makes them a better person. In fact, the most religious are frequently the most immoral. Look at the widespread sexual abuse sanctioned by the Catholic Church, today and throughout history.
As an aside, OPs conspiracy theory about the article titles sounds really silly.
I think it has a lot to do with the instrumentality capitalism wants from its participants -- and we seem to want to use science to make us better cogs rather than better humans. Its a pretty old idea stemming from the industrial revolution -- it just seems that today we're more 'loosely coupled' into the system which gives us just enough of an illusion of freedom. e.g. you can choose a job, but you can't choose not to have a job, you can speak freely, but you'll be monitored etc.
Because of this I have recently had a resurgence of volunteerism and religious soul seeking. I've found it refreshing that these two arenas seek earnestly to humanize through giving.