Value of Learning versus the Value of an "Education"

There is a conversation going on in the media on the topic of the value of education.  Do a Google News search for - value of education - and here are some of the links you'll get...

Calculating the Potential Return on Your Major‎ -
Peter Thiel Bets $2.4 Million Against the Value of College‎
Is University Education still worth it?‎ 
Education value
College isn't for everyone
Americans Split on Value of a College Degree 

‎I maintain that this is not just a tough, but important question. If your region doesn't have the percentage of HS/BA/BS graduates you won't get some looks from potential clients. There are regions betting their future on the idea that if they can just increase X, the result will be Y.  Normally it sounds like this - our region is 15% behind the state average in BA/BS degrees, statistics show that a person with a BA/BS degree makes X dollars more than someone with a HS diploma, thus, if we get to the state average we will improve median household income by Y dollars. 
‎

That sounds reasonable on some level doesn't it?  Let me waive my magic wand and give you 1,000 sociology majors (the degree I have)... what company's are flocking to you now?  Which are paying their employee's more money? The probable answer - ZERO.

I struggle with this argument.  In this dynamic global economy, knowing how to learn and a passion for learning are imperative.  I don't think the pieces of paper have value in the market place.  But, skills do, a passion and ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn does...