/sci/ - Science & Math

I had an argument with a fellow researcher recently on whether music is a worthwhile field to pursue and whether universities should be allocating budgets in this fields direction.

His argument was that music is extremely important to society in many aspects including but not limited to communication, and is on par with theater and literature and so studying it to improve music pieces is beneficial to society.

I'd like to hear your thoughts about this subject, your field and any other related background would be appreciated.