Thanks, Ethan.
As is so common with postmodern physics, we get lots of hype and speculation. There are many layers of abstract mathematical speculation, but precious little definitive empirical retrodiction and prediction. So little connection with the readily observable world.
People like Witten, Polchinski, Arkani-Hamad, Susskind, Greene, and others have been treated as prophets handing down wisdom to the adoring flock. But I think they are lost in their abstract modeling without an empirical compass to guide them. The failures of string theory, supersymmetry and WIMP dogma are cases in point.
When the dark matter is identified, the answer may shock the flock. Then there is a chance that we might get back to studying nature and doing real science again.