If I had to top-down optimize civilization to maximize output of one thing, it would be rate of production of good light science fiction, where good is my personal opinion.
What's your paperclip utility function?
Periods of prolific production of good science fiction have generally coincided with periods of robust expansion of the middle classes. And my definition of 'good' is generally middlebrow, widely popular stuff. Not connoisseur bullshit haute scifi.
I love the term "haute sci fi" I think I might like it. Is Star Trek haute? I have an original Star Trek episode or scene to reference for each day of the last four years, brought to me by the brilliant guy who is my husband.