That was precisely my point, Loran. You are confusing the term "expertise" with "discipline"/"professionalism." Just look at your recent exchange with gknowlton. Now, I could be mistaken, and you guys could have a history that I'm unaware of, but it seemed to me that you leapt right into your belittling comments about his intelligence, moral scruples, etc. That is not a sign of discipline or professionalism---by any measure---and it only reinforces my (and Bond's, apparently) sense that you lack this stuff on account of your never having completed college
If it weren't for the fact that I have taught for many years and worked with many difficult students I think I would be quite angry about Loran's belittling insults. However, I know that people who are insecure and unsure of themselves always have to put down others to make them feel better. Students often do this by arguing, insulting and antagonizing others, especially the teacher. Their superiority complex (perhaps inferiority complex) drives them to act so.
Confucious said "shu shi si de, xue xi shi huo de" which means 'studying is alive, and books are dead'. Education, whether its in formal surroundings or informal, depends on the individual and how they apply their knowledge. Having said that I think the most important thing is how a person uses their knowledge through interaction with others. Do they arrogantly flaunt technical vernacular to appear intelligent? Do they make personal attacks when their points are disproven? Are they egocentricaly opinionated? Are they open to new ideas?
A truely wise person listens more than they speak and thinks twice before judging others.