Alternatively, just do whatever obscure research you want outside of the university system. There won't be anyone to judge your 'success' or lack of it. When w

Alternatively, just do whatever obscure research you want outside of the university system. There won't be anyone to judge your 'success' or lack of it. When was the last time these mathematicians received feedback from the outside world instead of just deciding within their group who to declare as #1? They literally get paid by tax payers to do what is often the equivalent of glorified crosswords full time then congratulate themselves that they're good at it.