They don't really miss the point because those answers are still the correct answer to why the emphasis on research exists. It is the nature of the evolution of education with increasing access to it and technological advancements combined with an expanding population. You simply have more competition. Its like when our parents generation went to college - you didn't need three internships and a 3.5+ with a masters to get an entry level position at some random company (exaggeration obvi but probably wont be for our kids generation). Bottom line for most people: its a game of competition and they are going to do what it takes to get what they desire even if its unpaid which creates more competition. Whether its the right decision is up to the individual. I sometimes feel bad for the medical students of 2035 and beyond and what it will be like.