Most people joining the military do so to "defend the US", just like all the TV commercials claim their job will be. Just like most police officers join the force to defend the public.
Bullshit. Most people join the military and/or become cops to earn money.
Regardless, intentions don't make you a hero, actions do. If a politician sends you into another country to support a coup to oust some leader who's hostile to American business interests...you're not a hero...you're a mercenary.
I'm wondering at what point are the consumers going to rebel against all of this.
I already have. I refuse to fly with any major airlines. I'd rather take a small plane or drive.
Question should be rephrased: Does learning to code outweigh learning to code _better_?
A degree does not make one code better. Experience makes them code better. A degree and experience is even better (I'm not sure about this one because I've known experienced degree holders who still write awful code).
No amount of careful planning will ever replace dumb luck.