The value of an individual now, more than ever, is measured almost exclusively by his or her contribution to the economy. What are you worth? What is your profession? How much do you earn? How many kids do you have? What zip code do you live in? What kind of car do you drive? Now that the majority of middle-class Americans have college degrees, our education even boils down to, how expensive was the college you got that degree from? Prestige replaces practical education, and application of learning.