I was obliquely suggesting that there is clearly "utility" in speculation (but let me note here that this layman would not accept metaphysics dressed up as phys

I was obliquely suggesting that there is clearly "utility" in speculation (but let me note here that this layman would not accept metaphysics dressed up as physics). I agree that the institutional angle here is what is the critical issue. So to answer the GP once again, "Go ask the Pope!"