It seems to me that building better men is the work of the EA. The FC is required to investigate the hidden mysteries of nature and science.
You've posted this before. You've missed the entire point of the three degree progression.
EA = Heart Work (Emotions) = Mastering The Self, preparing to learn
FC = Head Work (Intellect) = Mastering The Universe, learning how to learn
MM = Spirit Work = Mastering The Word, learning and teaching
All THREE better men, when their Work is done. However, experiencing their ritual as nausea shall not do the job and may actually hold you back.
Success in the work of the FC logically is the precondition for the discovery and practice of Masonic Science.
Discovery, no. It is already discovered.
Practice, yes, but only in the respect that it trains the mind to recognize and use patterns.
I have hardly ever seen a brother attempt the work of the FC.
Hang with my Engineering homies and you'll see far more.
As a result few brethren discover Masonic Science - with the honorable exception of some Fraters of the SRIA.
LOL! You would do well to expand your circle.