Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Academia vs. Industry

There has been much discussion as to the primary crossroads in the life of any scientist. One must choose a life in either academia or industry. This choice, at its heart, is fundamentally a choice between penury or prosperity, because those entering academia will earn significantly less amounts than those who receive an industry emolument.

On a cursory examination of the previous sentence, it seems the choice would be abundantly clear: the money. However, several other variables come into play, chief among them being what often is the nemesis of money. Morality.

In the most basic terms, academia is the moral high road. In most cases, one’s research is for the good of all humanity rather than the profits of his company’s shareholders. Consequently, it seems clear that scientific research through academia is more in accordance with the basic tenets of social justice.

Nathan

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