The political system is what it is, and has been what it is, for quite some time. The US government won't collapse until the people do. Look at your history books and you'll find the proof you need. My only source of anxiety is the appearance of the next Black Swan event and how it impacts the world community.
The rich are going to do everything possible to keep that low hanging fruit within their reach, and as long as someone else is pushing those branches down for them, nothing will change.
I like the writings of Nassim Taleb and find his perspectives refreshing. You may too. Here is a link to a list of books that Mr. Taleb enjoyed. There may be one or more titles on the list that interest you. I have no affiliation with this site, just trying to make the information available to anyone who is interested. Your library may even have them as e-books you can borrow.
Leafworks and Bookdigits do this with challenges and medals sort of. You may also want to read up on the Game of Books which was a successful kickstarter, but ultimately died. I'm not familiar with what they intended but it may be a good what not to do.
Night by Elie Wiesel. I can't say enough about this book.
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson. For a short story, it will leave you with a lot to think about. Amazing.