the way the economics work out, independent consultants rarely spend much time on basic research Am I wrong to read this as: "After forty hours a week spend on

the way the economics work out, independent consultants rarely spend much time on basic research Am I wrong to read this as: "After forty hours a week spend on doing well-paid work for clients, it's hard to find another thirty hours to scour literature and write up results, while still having a life?" Because I'd be cautious in assuming that academics work much less than seventy hours a week. ;) It's true, though: Doing an actual stint in academia is the right way to get a lot of scientific publications out. But: It doesn't pay well. It's not the most effective way of keeping yourself alive, or creating clear and saleable value for others. That's why I call it a hobby. You are taking time away from more valuable pursuits to advance the field, teach people, and maybe even practice a little art. I'm sad to see that people think my use of the word hobby is so demeaning. I'm a big believer in hobbies. Here's my philosophy of the ideal life: You're born, you enjoy a series of hobbies (some of which may be deadly serious, like Steve Jobs' hobby of inventing the future), and then you die. I suppose I could look for a better word, but if the word doesn't express the concept of loads of fun it's not the right word. Apparently writing essays on HN is the hobby of the day for me...