Rank and file workers work among middle managers who would see no problem with illegal collusion with other companies, but they themselves lack the power to actually organize something like this. The general population is pretty much on par with middle managers culture wise, and would drive the average worker into the ground so their couple shares of GOOG stock can go up 1%. So it doesn't rise to something that would make a person quit, and since the general population are ok with and identify with middle management practices, its unlikely the situation would be better elsewhere.
As far my views on alternatives there is:
unemployment: bankruptcy, couch surfing or living in a shelter
self funded startup: doesn't pay and likely to fail. without external factors like connections or rich uncle, probably won't get off the ground before bankruptcy.
small team of equal partners: doesn't pay, requires capital to pay in, "equal" partners will probably try to push each other out.
incubator: pays very bad, greeks bearing gifts, silly patronizing, reality tv-like environment.
angel investor: can't find these unless you're famous, have well-connected family, or already successful.
small company/startup: founders will shit all over your day. will take everything personally (including payday) and want you to conform to their values. Don't like golf? Not a drinker?, gtfo. pay is shit.
big evil company: Half a dozen middle managers are trying to figure out how screwing you improves their situation. ceo is probably doing bad things. pay is good.
So, yeah, if you take the financial aspect out of work, there are a wide array of alternatives.