Der Geller:
The way I see it, the Gedolim have conflicting goals as regarding what needs to be done for Klal Yisroel (for a simple example, pay for yeshiva and learn in Kollel). Sometimes a tough choice needs to be made for the best of the Klal, and one ideal is prioritized, even though there are others that will lose out.
Social engineering? Machiavellian? Maybe. But there have never been more learners and Kollel men since the Bais HaMikdash.