Why would you rather be able to hack something together than to understand the underlying theory? In my opinion that value system is backwards. I think the most respectable skill is algorithms, and innumeracy should be as embarrassing as illiteracy.
Actually If a person can solve a problem without any previous algorithm theory it shows they can solve problems naturally. Learning algorithms if they wanted wouldn't be a problem. TO many people claim they are so sharp with algos. but cant code for shit.