Yes. When you look at the dollar amount earned by philosophers vs welders, the philosophers make more. But that’s not really the point, is it? Slate completely ignores Rubio’s comments about how increasing pay by an arbitrary, feelings-based amount would be disastrous, how we need reforms of the tax and regulatory systems, and how there must be better access to education. Beyond that, the source of the chart data reveals a more important point. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2014, the number of people employed as Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary is 23,210. The total number of welders in the same report as indicated here and here totals 424,970.  It would appear that welders are clearly a necessity to society, whereas philosophers are not.

I am not against anyone pursuing whatever they want in college, but there must be some perspective. Trade/vocational schools train students for immediate, practical careers which are numerous. Furthermore, I don’t see trade school attendees protesting or hiding out in safe spaces for their own selfish, media-hyped gain. Could it be that overall, they don’t have a bloated sense of self-importance fueled by an emotions-first environment? Possibly.

In terms of higher education, it’s clear we need to set a realistic expectation for post-college job prospects. This is something that is very much a student’s responsibility. We see many current students already partaking in obnoxious displays of power on their respective campuses, and sometimes, succeeding. This fantasy will end once they reach the job market and meet reality face-to-face.  The truth is that possessing a 4-year college degree doesn’t increase your worth, and in some ways (depending on the major), might be a detriment in a world where welders outnumber philosophers.