MySql Encryption - What's the Point?

[DoctorWho]

Is there any point to encrypting database data??

If I have the tools to decrypt the data, e.g. AESDecrypt(str), why wouldn't somebody else who physically removed/stole the machine from the data room?

And why should one bother if they are perhaps already serving pages over an SSL browser connection?

Any ideas on this issue are appreciated.

[laserlight]

If I have the tools to decrypt the data, e.g. AESDecrypt(str), why wouldn't somebody else who physically removed/stole the machine from the data room?

Presumably the secret key would not be available to the attacker who removed the machine. Of course, if you leave the key in the padlock (or lying under the mat where it can be found), then the burglar will just use it to open the lock.