I couldn't agree more with Green lights and aa73.
Unfortunately this cadet thing is far too engrained particularly in the British aviation culture. Currently it is all about business sense rather than common sense. I doubt anything will change.
Bealzebub makes good arguments in favour of the system but that is because he is part of the system and therefore objectivity is difficult.
My view on how Pilots should be hired is:
- Experience
- verify quality
With cadets you have no experience and verification of quality is difficult.