[atomicnature]

Think of it as your PhD equivalent in the business world. One does a PhD not for mere survival, but for the thirst of knowledge, for engaging in stimulating intellectual activity and so on. The results from your PhD probably may not become famous, may not fetch you any big awards and whatnot, but it will mean something to you. It is essential that you aim for some sort of non-monetary returns, perhaps psychological and emotional results, first and foremost (since it's within your control).

If someone looks down upon you for trying and learning, then is it really worth associating with them?