Uncertain Principles: Why So Many Theorists?
For whatever reason, theoretical physicists and mathematicians are far more likely to be barking mad than experimental physicists. Maybe because concrete comparisons to experimental data require a sort of basic groundedness that theory does not. Maybe because the crazy would-be experimentalists all electrocute themselves early on, and those who survive switch to theory.
Theory is preferred to experiment because virtual mud packs tighter than real gems. Theorists boast promiscuity while empiricists pay child support. Either way, imagination is intelligence having fun.