[JohnFen]

> It's not exactly the same thing, but it's a similar situation.

It's pretty close to the same thing. Programmers are paid for knowing how to program, not for memorizing APIs, system calls, etc. Being able to look up details is essential because it lightens the cognitive load, allowing deeper thought to be put into the real meat of the problem. No programmer can realistically memorize every technical detail they'll need to know.

It's the same with doctors. They're paid because they know the process of diagnosing illnesses, not for memorizing Gray's Anatomy and every pharmacopoeia. Being able to look stuff up is essential for the same reason it is for programmers.

Not to mention that medicine changes, and you want your doctor to have the latest information about whatever it is that ails you.