Quite well put Simon if I may say so.
Several colleagues of mine whilst on the ATPL groundschool struggled considerably with the requirements of the course and they had degrees. The ATPLs, the flight testing and the money are all hurdles that filter. They are the current system and although not perfect do a reasonable job.
Knowing about sedimentary rock formations is interesting, even to me (being a bit of a dumbo without a degree) but ultimately doesn't prove anything when facing a depressurisation at 40,000ft.
I grew up in the 1970s and an enduring image of academics was the OU on BBC2 early on a Saturday (or was it Sunday?) morning. Now if you are suggesting to me that that lot should be the benchmark for pilot entry requirements then I think I'll give Michael Jackson a ring to see if Bubbles is free for an Alicante at the weekend..................
PP