Billions of dollars are paid to financial advisors each year to earn a return that is superior to what an individual could earn on his or her own. John Bogle started the Vanguard Company and the first index mutual fund. Please discuss what index funds are, how they are different from other mutual funds, and whether (or not) you believe in using this vehicle in place of a financial advisor (not totally replacing an advisor - just with regard to stock/mutual fund selections).