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Their total earnings over the last 10 years at their job is likely around $1mm or more, and I assume they also have assets which are appreciating in value. It doesn't seem outlandish to me, and a break after 9 years at one company sounds nice. Professors and other such people somehow find the money to take regular sabbaticals.

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Tenured profs are generally paid to take a sabbatical and a lot of times are expected to write something to be published while they're gone.

That's a neat (sort-of) perk. I didn't know that. Thanks!

Applies to pre-tenure professors (on the tenure track) as well. They do research/writing during this time if they want to be promoted. But once you reach the highest rank (full professor), there's not much your university can do if you aren't productive.

Many professors are of course still motivated by internal drive, but there aren't strong external controls that can be exerted.

Professors are paid (though sometimes only ~50%) during their sabbaticals. Otherwise you're exactly right.

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