Short answer:
Yes — traditional “knowledge” is now cheap.
Real value lies in application, originality, and execution.

Why?
1. AI Has Flattened the Knowledge Advantage 90% of the world’s data was created in just the last 2 years (IDC, 2024).
GPT-4o and other LLMs can summarize, code, draft legal documents in seconds.

Old world: Knowing more = Advantage.
Now: Everyone has access to the same knowledge. The difference is what you do with it.

Example:
A junior coder with ChatGPT can now ship apps faster than a mid-level engineer stuck in “analysis paralysis.”

2. Memorization Is Dead — Judgment Matters
Only 12% of employers say “memorized knowledge” is critical (World Economic Forum, 2024).
Critical thinking and adaptability ranked #1 and #2.
Example:
Doctors using AI diagnosis tools still need human judgment to handle edge cases and emotional patient care — AI can’t replace that.

3. Speed and Original Thought Are New Currency
Startups that launch products within 6 months have a 3x higher success rate than those that wait 12+ months (CB Insights, 2024).
Example: In India, Zepto (10-minute grocery delivery) raced ahead of legacy giants like BigBasket by executing faster, not by “knowing more.”

Why Are “Dropouts” Succeeding More?
1. Institutions Can’t Keep Up With Tech
Only 31% of university curricula globally include AI/ML modules (QS World University Rankings, 2024).
Example:
Many IIT grads are learning cutting-edge AI outside the classroom — from YouTube, GitHub, and communities like Paperspace.

2. Fast Experimenters Win Big
Example:
Kunal Shah (Founder of CRED) openly talks about dropping out and learning faster by building startups than by sitting in classrooms.

3. Credentials Matter Less, Execution Matters More
72% of tech hiring managers prioritize skills over degrees (LinkedIn Workforce Report, 2024).
Example:
Founders of companies like Zerodha (India’s biggest stock brokerage) were not “Ivy League” grads — they built products that worked.

4. AI Supercharges Individuals
A solopreneur using ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Zapier can now run operations that took 10 employees just 5 years ago.
Example:
Single-person Shopify brands are now doing $100K+ revenue using LLMs for content, ads, and customer support automation.

Bottom Line:
Knowledge is free.
Judgment, creativity, and relentless execution are rare — and insanely valuable.
The world now belongs to fast learners, builders, and those who turn insight into action.

What matters:
“In the AI era, those who learn fast, build fast, and adapt fast — win.”