I think that reflects society placing too much of a value on a high GPA than on learning something useful.
I’m sure the OWS guy who is all over the news today had a perfect 4.0 when he got his degree in Puppetry.
Give me an engineer with a solid 2.5 anyday.
I think you have hit the nail on the head,having 4 very bright children of my own. Seeking high grades really makes kids risk-averse.