I'm sure that as an intelligent person, you will be aware that it is usually outliers, rejected by the powerful, (ie those seeking tenure, and who benefit from the status quo) facing what's often life-threatening opposition, who are the most innovative and whose courageous work, generates new paradigms that benefit future generations.

Academic institutions are usually lagging behind as they are peopled by cowards, opportunists and those comfortable with the status quo. Why do you think the great Nicolai Tesla did not gain a university position but died in poverty and loneliness?