[jekrb]

    > a degree signifies the individual has a certain level of commitment, dedication, and has the ability to achieve goals (aka win!).

Can't you also say the same about a young person without a degree, yet is still achieving levels of success in their field?

In fact, wouldn't this person have more commitment, dedication, and ability, as they have the critical thinking skills to become knowledgeable and experienced, without having to fork tons of money and time to an institution?

[caminante]

You can't say the same with the same degree of efficiency.

If someone's a no-degree superstar, they have to network or market themselves harder to get on claypoolb's radar. Information exchange is more expensive.

degree+GPA's a reasonable filter to pass over lots of candidates. Mind you, claypoolb's also talking about entry-level positions (I think...)