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> Serious question, who funds their research? And do any of them ever plan to work or consult in industry?

Many of the academics at the top of this list are quite wealthy from direct employment, investing and consulting for big tech and venture-funded startups.

That's a good question, but at least some of the academics on this list are independent. Bruce Schneier, for example.

So some are naive and the rest are self interested?

They are also interested in cutting out other researchers that can compete with them in accademic output and prestige.