> I really hate this overly condescending takes Sorry, but this is backwards. Mathematicians are the ones coming to the table asking for money from the taxpaye

> I really hate this overly condescending takes Sorry, but this is backwards. Mathematicians are the ones coming to the table asking for money from the taxpayer. This is the context we are speaking in. Mathematicians speaking with the taxpayers who fund them. It's not a great strategy to get offended or speak from a high horse. If the taxpayer is not getting it, patiently explain why you think this art project should remain funded at the same level instead of spending it on something else.