Also remember, many of these scientists are smart and can see that game that has to be played to get/stay employed. So we should not be surprised when they play in a way to maximize their gain in this game (publication count).
Also, getting external funding (mainly grants) is a similar type of game with crazy things happening (I've been a grant reviewer enough times to see some of the stuff). This along with some other issues (lack of funding of public universities for one) has caused some tenured faculty to leave and find employment elsewhere.
I also publish (not too often) but luckily its not a requirement for my current job (it does help for promotion)
Fair point. Just a shame that you and other scientists need to waste their precious time playing those games. Any good luck and congrats on launching a post that stimulated so many responses! You picked a hot and original topic for Steemit :)