Now who is right?
Arguing that TOE is impractical is neither fair nor correct. Due to the labor involved in the experimentation of this idea, only a few pratical applications have been made, such as using neutrons in cancer therapy and positrons to understanding how the brain works. We need to give it time, and we can use the histroy of science as the judge. The development of the thoeyr comes before the development of the technology from that theory. To look at it from the other direction, to use an old axui, is to put the cart before the horse. Whether a TOE does exist and is waiting for us, or does not and an even more complex universe awaits is immaterial. Theory must begin as exactly that, theory, before it can take form. Applications are not yet seen, but that is nothing new for science. I believe that the pursuit of TOE will lead to practical applications whether TOE itself is found or not. Valuable knowledge and experience will lead scientists to the practical applications doubters shout for.
[Scientsts] direct their research to prolems which are relevent in a social sence. This view has be countered by the observation that nobody can tell whether or how fundamental research will be relavent in the future (Staffen, p185). This is why I think that the theory of TOE should be pursued even if, at this point, there is not a practical development in the works for the information. Like most other theoretical developments, TOE usefulness can not be predicted, but we should not ignore it. We don’t know what offshoots are possible, but that does not mean that we should not try. TOE is not a purely theoretical pursuit. It is a downpayment on future advances. We don't know, we can't yet know what applications this knowledge will bring. Although Werheim sights several socail problems are reasons to ignore the question of TOE, there is also nothing to say that the development of TOE could not impact those conditions either directly or indirectly. The decision to fallow through on TOE is not a matter of relavence but the face of science. Will science drive technology, or technology science? The histroy of scientfic advancement stems frin te development of theory leading to applications. I believe that TOE will do the same if given the chance.