The question http://mathoverflow.net/questions/137114/how-does-the-work-of-a-pure-mathematician-impact-society was originally quickly closed, relatively quickly reopened, after a longer time closed again and has at the time of this edit a vote to reopen. And, it also has many up-votes and answers. There is not yet much meta discussion in the comments, yet in an effort to close the stable before the horse might bolt I thought I'd create this already, in case the need arises. (This is a service-post; please do not interpret it as expressing an opinion for or against the question.) Edited to reflect new situation and to correct initial oversight.