I mean... I also went into my neibours apartment a couple times by mistake.
Looking at my dog, I think he understands elevators. Maybe not that why it goes, but probably does that it goes. Sometimes I think animals have better spatial awaerness then humans.
If I understand what you said, then it is still a problem caused by capitalism. Because we have the knowledge and technology to live comfortably with a lot less manpower then 300 years ago. And yea we can go into details, but the difference between an ox and a tractor is huuuuge.