The task of the first-class University, however, is absolutely clear. Industry being its customer, consultancy must tell industry what it wants to hear; it is the task of the first-class University to tell industry what it does not want to hear, whereby it is the rôle of its scientific authority to ensure that the sting of the academic gadfly really hurts.
In my experience —gathered on different continents—, it is impossible to completely prevent all snake oil peddling on campus, but by openly despising it one can at least save the integrity of the academic enterprise as a whole.
from There is a war going on by E.W.Dijkstra
I recommend reading this essay.
