The Value of Education

I haven't been very active on this forum over the past few weeks owing to the fact I have had to study for exams, and, of course, sit those exams.

I've been wondering recently the value of what I have done, now the exams are over. For instance, a Law exam I sat just yesterday consisted of me spewing facts and case law references onto the paper. I had taken so much time and effort to remember these things. But that's all the exam consisted of really - remembering things. The only thing which entailed actual intelligence, rather than the mindless remembrance of facts was the so-called 'analysing' of the law; which I could find in a law textbook, and remember that too!

I guess what I'm trying to say is that I feel there isn't much to be proud of in gaining this qualification. Its only value is the granting of me going into further education (assuming I pass the exams, obviously). Granted, all courses are not like Law. Some do actually require more than a good memory. But, on the whole, institutionalised education seems to me like you need a good memory to do 'well'.

Any thoughts are welcome