Philosophy is simply irrelevant.<p>Discoveries in physical sciences lead to new technology or just to a better understanding of how the world works and how we fit in it.<p>Research in social sciences, when the political courage exists to pursue it, can lead to better policy, and better lives for everyone.<p>Philosophy just seems to be a bunch of circle jerking around esoteric terms and concepts with no trickle down benefits. If Philosophy departments around the world simply shutdown over night, would anyone notice? Would anyone be the worse of?  Even in the long term? Probably not. Well maybe would be philosophy students would pursue more employable fields for their undergraduate study, increasing the labor pool and competition for jobs.