Working people may have the wealth, but not the leisure. Working people are, by definition, working -- often during the most productive hours of the day. Scientific or artistic pursuits are usually in the off-hours: the early mornings, evenings and weekends, interrupted commuting, meal preparation, child care and housework. Lady and gentlemen scientists of the past were either wealthy or supported by patrons, and had at least eight more productive hours a day (on average) than today's hobbyist scientist.
True to some extent but middle class people in their 20s before having kids and after their kids are in high school have a ton of leisure time. It’s just usually spent spending money. Their entertainment dollars.
