On Poetry and Culture Shock

Let's assume that someone belongs to an organisation that is very big, or so chaotic in its functioning that it looks big. Let's also assume that the organisation serves a generous purpose, but that Management is petty, mean, and abuses power. If you believe in the original ideals of the whole thing, is it better...

-to give up because life's too short?

-to focus on menial tasks that are essential to the smooth functioning of the organisation and that never call the Bad Boys' attention?