PS. I really will never believe that you actually feel the way you are posting. I just see more trolling for an argument. You are much too smart to not see the program for what it is.
I meant ever word.
I am not one to persue labling and restrictive, divisive and limiting, or a caste system of alienation of individuals.
Take the EAS master program. What are the true benefits?
I see it as something that gives EAS a marketing tool. Something to boost attendance. And something to give them control of some slice of the industry. They even became upset in years past when other associations and state level groups started using the term "Master Beekeeper".
I don't give preference in friends, or how I value someone based on any title. I don't think those with MD, Colonel, or master beekeeper, are any better individuals than anyone else without those titles. I base my respect and interst in the person standing in front of me on things like character, morals, principles, etc. As I said, I don't see the industry benefit to the public by master this or that, when most of the work is from those not master beekeepers.
Maybe it's just me. I have enough regulation, enough certification, and enough box defining measures in my life. Certification often is just the means to other restrictive measures and requirements down the road. I see now where the industry is pushing for "pure honey certification" and having a label stamp for those who want to take part in the program. Making those who do not want to go through the certification with the idea to the public that their product is not pure.
As with any industry, it always slides towards more restrictions, certification, and control. In the overall scheme of things, master programs conditions many that grouping, separating, and labling folks, is good for all involved. And I don't see it that way. Yes, I see certification being used for many industries and a real benefit. But the bee industry hardly is in the same category as with some industries where health and safety are issues being addressed with certifications. And I could only imagine a day when being a beekeeper is only allowed once a person is first "certified" and issued a permit. And since a "certification program: (ie. master programs) are already are in place, who do you suppose will be the first to support and approve such certification? Of course, those on control and your state universities. Not many see it coming down the road. But after the fact, usually many ask "How did we get to this point?....which is usually too late for any change.
I know it's natural for folks to want to be part of something. A gang, MC, etc. It is also natural for folks to want to feel special by labels and plaques on the wall. Many studies have been done on the "clan" mentality of the human spirit.
Just don't be surprised when not everyone feels that same way. ;)