it is quite conceivable that a society could be converted to an orientation that favors reduced material and energy consumption in return for more equality and opprotunity for all.

That would be a top-down transformation. The problem is that the top will not be interested in reversing opportunities once they perceive resource limitations. They will know the game - either you rule the limited capital and the people, or be ruled. So their social constructs  will be on the backward feudal side. Who will be willing, able, effective to bother with the contrary social constructs?