The idea that private funding means that what is studied matters is highly dubious at best. Most private research pertains to application and product developmen

The idea that private funding means that what is studied matters is highly dubious at best. Most private research pertains to application and product development, and often relies on fundamental discoveries coming from academic labs. Only academia can afford to let scientists run loose. It certainly results in a good amount of inapplicable theories, but is nevertheless very much essential.