In reply to ianstevens:
Well - exactly as I said, in other words: some people don't appreciate the value and autonomy of learning something for yourself. And, when it comes to trad, learning autonomy is one of the most important assets of all. Autodidaticism has a long history within climbing.
But, note, I did say: "Go out with friends or join a local climbing club." I more or less taught myself to trad climb. But, of course, part of that was listening attentively to friends and partners and reading books and watching videos. I've even done courses with qualified instructors - and gained a lot in the process. But, I learnt some things doing it for myself that can't be taught. Indeed, I think there's a case for arguing that expecting an instructor to be able to teach you trad climbing is wrong-headed from the get-go. It is about passing off responsibility - not only for managing risk, but also for learning and direction.
Of course, it isn't either/or. I never suggested that it's not valuable to seek out instruction - merely gave pointers as to how to make a start for yourself. Which is an important corrective to people who think that knowledge, skills and ability can simply be purchased.
Post edited at 13:03