I think a lot of this comes down to comfort and habit. Ideas and symbols make us feel like we're on the “right” side without really challenging us. Being genuinely selfless, calm, or disciplined is hard work, and maybe it’s easier to admire the “idea” of it than to practice it. Deep down, I think most of us know we’re still, as you put it, those “greedy apes” who have just put on a polished front.