The World Without Self-Taught Individuals

Let's imagine a dystopian universe where the business world decides to summarily ignore any individual without a university degree.

A world where self-taught intelligence is scorned and innate potential is neglected as if it were trash.

Let's see the impact, particularly in the areas that have shaped our modern society - mathematics, computing, cybersecurity, quantum physics, programming, and technology in general - it would be... unimaginable...

Let's start with mathematics. Srinivasa Ramanujan, one of the greatest mathematicians in history, was essentially self-taught, without formal academic training. His contributions revolutionized number theory and continue to influence modern mathematics. In this universe we've created, where only higher education is venerated, his discoveries would have been thrown in the trash. Ramanujan would have been kicked out of any job interview, labeled as unfit due to the absence of a piece of paper.

George Boole, another self-taught mathematician, created Boolean algebra, the foundation of digital logic and modern computing. Boole never set foot in a renowned university, but his brilliant mind and insatiable curiosity allowed him to develop fundamental concepts for the technology we use daily. Without recognition of his self-taught skills, the evolution of computing could have been delayed by decades.

In the field of computing, Ada Lovelace, often considered the first programmer in history, worked with Charles Babbage on developing concepts that were precursors to modern programming. Lovelace was self-taught who, even with some formal training, expanded her knowledge on her own.

This lady gets a double bow from me, as she already overcame male prejudice and other resistances in the world she lived in... But in this parallel universe, her innovative talent would have been despised, and the history of computing would be irremediably different...

Modern cybersecurity owes much to hackers and self-taught programmers. Kevin Mitnick, one of the most famous hackers, became a cybersecurity expert, consultant, and author, even after a turbulent past without a formal degree in the field. In a world where companies ignore talents without formal certification, Mitnick would have been cast aside as a pariah, and the evolution of cybersecurity would have suffered a significant delay.

In the world of programming and computer development, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs are iconic examples. Both dropped out of college and yet revolutionized technology, founding Microsoft and Apple, respectively. In this alternative universe, where CEOs and HR only worship degrees, the impact of these visionaries would never have occurred, with the aggravating factor that a kid their age without higher education would never get past the IBM security guard, let alone make million-dollar contracts... or keep a company open in garages... you get it! This alternative world of mine would be unrecognizable...

Nikola Tesla, whose formal education was limited, was a self-taught inventor who developed alternating current (AC), fundamental to modern electricity. Tesla, often underestimated throughout his life, brought innovations that are pillars of our technological infrastructure today. Without recognition and opportunity to explore his ideas, progress in electrification and energy transmission technology would have been drastically slower. If it was already difficult in his time, today he wouldn't even get enough likes on reels for one project.

It's imperative to recognize that an individual's value doesn't lie in a mere piece of paper, but in their ability to learn, adapt, and innovate.

The world needs self-taught individuals as much as it needs academics, for it is these visionaries who often break barriers and create the future...