It's a very interesting question. certainly in tims of recession protest songs flourished particularly in democratic countries like Britain and the U.S.A. I think because in those days there were still enough politicians of principle that they could be influenced to produce social change. I'm not Knowledgeable enough to comment on U.S politics, but certainly here in the UK, most politicians are so utterly right wing and corrupt, and anti poor while being incredibly pro rich, that people simply don't feel those in power are capable of listening or caring any more. We are simply in the grip of dictatorship just like many third world countries. So what's the point of protest when you know it's falling on deaf ears!