[chrismonsanto]

> but I also recognize that the end goal of technological progress is to allow us to experience more culture by augmenting and facilitating our lives

For you, anyway. For me (a theoretical computer scientist/mathematician), more advanced technology is its own reward. I don't really care what the results are applied to.

[Qom]

Expanding our understanding of the universe IS part of culture since it allows us new avenues of thought. The arts and sciences were considered to be the same thing not so long ago.

I also find it highly doubtful that you do not care about the results of technology. Technology pretty much shapes our lives so you cannot plausibly pretend to be so blasé about it all. Our continued existence depends on the responsible use of powerful inventions so not caring about the results is a pretty unscientific and downright dangerous attitude anyway.