Seems to me hands on experience in the job wins every time over automatic brain disengaged mode, also in most professions that I can think of.
With respect to professional status , commercial pilots will retain the respect of lay people regardless of how they fly , because people generally appreciate the specialised job and the big responsibility that comes along with it.
Job satisfaction would be vastly improved with some direct contact with the passengers , what's clearly lacking is some positive feedback from the clients . Sadly don't know how that's possible in this day and age.
My background ; GA pilot
and practising dentist
