[blown_gasket]

This reads as survivorship bias.

I also think it's quite the opposite - knowledge jobs can be self-taught with a spectrum of degree within that statement as well. Computer programming - absolutely. Electronics - once you start working with real devices rather than sims you now have to invest not insignificant capital if you want to use testing equipment and measurement tools. Accounting - I'd guess you have to invest capital to take the CPA exam (United States) and you may even have to have interned before that.

However, if we look at other 'gainful employment': mechanical work - sure you just need to have the engines available and ready to be worked on; not necessarily a free endeavor. CNC programming - maybe there are simulators but again you will want to eventually learn the feel of real equipment. Woodworking, metal-working, other-fabrication - you are going to burn through a decent amount of source material before you learn what you're doing. Commercial driving - some places will pay for you to go through the whole program, you can't just self-teach yourself and apply how to drive a commercial truck.

The last sentence just reads as condescending (there are some individuals that are morally opposed to the idea of pirating, you have indicated this is not the side you fall on).