[bsg75]

I have felt the same from time to time (45 here). However, as software technologists we have one advantage: our work can be completely independent.

In this case I mean if you can conceive a project to better a part of the world, it may be possible to implement with resources you already have at your disposal.

The materials energy researchers need resources beyond the reach of most individuals (and their personal budgets), and in some cases corporate resistance to embedded profit centers.