It was more like a poorly written complete rehash/ripoff of the first season TNG episode "Conspiracy". These guys don't have an original thought in their brains.

Your representation of their "popularity" is essentially wrong and misplaced. These shows have consistently been in the Top 20 in their time slots since forever. That is why they've been renewed continuously. When that changes, then they won't. Very simple. Your "opinion" on the matter or anyone else's are irrelevant. It's always about the numbers.