A lot of people pursue PhDs because they are good at school and are highly trained to “jump through the next hoop.”
Not to be dismissive, because career academics are important. But there is an unnecessary anxiety for many about leaving school and entering the workforce.
I think one attraction is also: “wow, I can get paid to continue my education?”
Academia is like universal basic income for the highly intelligent. It’s a good system, overall and I think it will have a strong future. But it is not a good way to build wealth.
That said, the freedom it provides can make a PhD a great place to start a business, start a family, etc. But, it requires bravery and self direction, because it certainly won’t steer you there.
Not to be dismissive, because career academics are important. But there is an unnecessary anxiety for many about leaving school and entering the workforce.
I think one attraction is also: “wow, I can get paid to continue my education?”
Academia is like universal basic income for the highly intelligent. It’s a good system, overall and I think it will have a strong future. But it is not a good way to build wealth.
That said, the freedom it provides can make a PhD a great place to start a business, start a family, etc. But, it requires bravery and self direction, because it certainly won’t steer you there.