The book is a critique of the society depicted. As you point out, it is dysfunctional in a wide variety of ways, and the heroes slowly discard their own preconceptions and try to fix things.
Please note that the work in question is clearly identified as "science fiction." A staple element of SF is the investigation of the "what if..." or the "if this continues..." possibilities. Speculation is inherent in the writings of most SF authors, and Robert Heinlein is a prime example of such. To properly understand his values on this (or any) subject one must be familiar with virtually all of his writings, both fiction and non-fiction. While I have no doubt that this website would take issue with the values of RAH, the beliefs and values that are found in his writings do represent a legitimate political and philosophical viewpoint worth considering and debating reasonably.
The book is a critique of the society depicted. As you point out, it is dysfunctional in a wide variety of ways, and the heroes slowly discard their own preconceptions and try to fix things.
Please note that the work in question is clearly identified as "science fiction." A staple element of SF is the investigation of the "what if..." or the "if this continues..." possibilities. Speculation is inherent in the writings of most SF authors, and Robert Heinlein is a prime example of such. To properly understand his values on this (or any) subject one must be familiar with virtually all of his writings, both fiction and non-fiction. While I have no doubt that this website would take issue with the values of RAH, the beliefs and values that are found in his writings do represent a legitimate political and philosophical viewpoint worth considering and debating reasonably.