Cashing in

The other day I had a FB argument of practical vs. impractical knowledge and skills. Not that much of an argument; you cannot expect much either from your average user or the medium.
Anyways, I actually champion non-practical knowledge or - actually what passes for the thing. As much as insight cripples, it also provides one a foothold for more thought-through decisions. Yann Martels 'What is Stephen Harper reading'? brought a smile on my face. It isn't depth that lawyers discover.
And what can be said for the so-called practical knowledge? Or for the idea that different Bill Gates teach at our academia? Sad will be the day. Not that a book could not profitably be written on the subject, but what strikes me is how cashing in can be associated with the somewhat lower rung of common denominators.
As much as this goes counter the American ethics - money reeks. While all you can expect in return is some professionalism.