If software has any unique characteristics it is how far a single math-oriented programmer can get due to our unique abilities to pull down huge libraries with

If software has any unique characteristics it is how far a single math-oriented programmer can get due to our unique abilities to pull down huge libraries with incredible functionality without having to work with anyone to do it. Right. Even if you are unable or unwilling to play those political games, you can stop at the senior SWE or equivalent level at Google/Facebook/Amazon and still have an income that's well into the top decile. I'm not aware of any other field where you can get that kind of compensation without management or leadership responsibilities.