I was under the impression that mathematics (and science generally) had the primary goal of helping us understand our universe better than those who came before us.

I don't know how societies set "primary goals". After spending 15 years in a tenure track -- tenured position, I thought setting goals well was important.

I take pleasure in how mathematics and science help me understand the universe better than I understood it before I studied the fields. I believe that my understanding has helped me contribute to society.