I feel skunks don't have a purpose to us humans... or do they? 
I'm not sure.  I had a friend that kept one as a pet after they had the sprayer removed.  She treated it like a cat or dog.  They're just a little complex to take care of at times.
People seriously have them as pets???? Thats so crazy!!
Yup.  She thought it had a cure appearance, and it could be as loyal and playful as a cat or dog.