The very idea of clergy and laity goes against what was laid out in the New Testament.
It is a concept that keeps the common person detached from their role in the gospel.
While access to Scripture has improved dramatically, the idea that your priest is better equipped to know and understand it so you rely on them instead of the Spirit of God remains.
Many who think themselves just laity don’t read or seek to know what the scripture say; they just drink in whatever their priest says, even if it is contrary to what is written.
Catholicism, in general, elevates their traditions over the Scripture - so when there is disconnect between the two they tend towards the tradition.
Same problem different era.