How many scientists are there who, a few years into their careers, realize that they are 100% on a wild goose chase and that there is no merit in pursuing their line of research—but are pot committed and keep trucking on anyway because their livelihoods depend on it?

They must be out there, right? Maybe in droves? Because what scientist would ever say, "Well yes, my CV has dozens of publications on this line of research, but I have learned that it is in fact a nonsensical road to nowhere. Still, I must continue down this road to keep my job."