If you subscribe to the theory that markets allocating capital based on supply and demand is beneficial for society (even if detrimental sometimes in the short term), then traders provide the utility of contributing to the proper allocation of resources in society (which is constantly in flux).
The fact that smart people opt to go into trading (or selling advertising) rather than research is a consequence of government underpaying scientists (or the volatility is too high, or the path to quality of life at work is too low).
Either way, if the situation is that society needs more scientists or doctors or whatever, then the government should be paying more to incentivize those choices.
Markets influenced by traders can lead to misallocation of resources, as traders often prioritise short-term profits through speculation rather than investing in productive, long-term projects beneficial to society. Traders frequently increase market volatility, contributing little to meaningful innovation or economic growth.
Additionally, even if governments improved pay for essential roles like scientists or doctors, the outsized financial rewards from trading would still attract talent away from these critical areas. Therefore, depending on markets and government incentives alone ignores the negative impact traders’ profit-driven strategies can have on society’s overall well-being.
If you subscribe to the theory that markets allocating capital based on supply and demand is beneficial for society (even if detrimental sometimes in the short term), then traders provide the utility of contributing to the proper allocation of resources in society (which is constantly in flux).
The fact that smart people opt to go into trading (or selling advertising) rather than research is a consequence of government underpaying scientists (or the volatility is too high, or the path to quality of life at work is too low).
Either way, if the situation is that society needs more scientists or doctors or whatever, then the government should be paying more to incentivize those choices.