I think the point is that the information you learned isn't exclusive to degree seekers. Every book you read in class could have been read outside of class, and

I think the point is that the information you learned isn't exclusive to degree seekers. Every book you read in class could have been read outside of class, and for most people the only difference in their ability to learn on their own is motivation. Paying to be motivated is not the same as paying for education. The cost of the education is $200 per book, anything more than that is free money for people who tell you to read the books.