It's really hard to believe that PhD is the end of tunnel. It is starting form another round of study. For example, there was discussion about what if Mayan calendar expires and what will happen? This question is similar to some extent presented in this thread. However, I strongly of opinion that new calendar will be established as soon as the old calendar gets expired. The case might be relevant in case of learning.

After PhD, it opens the door for post doc. In this post doc, any researcher will learn more if they didn't able to fill the gap. If even in post doc, they are unable to do so , they can do it as becoming assistant professor, the round goes s on and on ..until the curiosity is not fulfilled.

Thus, my argument is going only in academic life may mask the social learning and somehow it may make one independent in their interest, but still he/she could not fill shortcomings originating from the social perspective.