Comment by rramadass

> It pays pretty well ... I crave more purpose in life but understand the most rational choice is to keep going and saving for retirement.

"A bird in hand is always worth two in the bush" when it comes to Finances in today's uncertain world.

However, "Purpose in Life" != "Job Needs"; Disambiguate them in your head and pursue/manage each separately. Learn/Study whatever you find interesting and want to do. Whether you decide to make it a job to make money out of is a separate decision.

> Does it make sense to change direction at this point?

It may or may-not based on your financial/family situation and appetite for risk.

> I envy PhDs working on self-driving cars and rockets and AI.

Change that envy to inspiration so that you can study any of the above or other subjects that you find interesting. You can orient this towards getting a more satisfying job in the domain that you love or just do it for the intellectual enjoyment.

> But also question overall morality of the tech industry.

Don't go there unless you want to change everything about your life.

PS: Study Philosophy both the ideal and pragmatic kind.