[publius911]

He did some important scientific work decades ago. Then he decided he'd rather be a celebrity.

Important to whom? When?
Hasn't benefited my life, or that of my family, my community, city, state or country in any measurable way whatsoever.

Nor our collective health and safety as a species.

I repeat the question...
Important how?

[NobleFree]

Hasn't benefited my life, or that of my family, my community, city, state or country in any measurable way whatsoever.

Isaac Newton's law of gravitation failed that test for centuries - but now it's indispensable to putting satellites in stable, useful orbits. (Please tell me you understand how satellites benefit us.)

And then there's understanding the marvels of God's creation for their own sake.