why do ppl who have photoshop/illustrator think that makes them designers?

Yes, it is a problem. And it brings down the earning potential of a real designer. In this age, when you have online, automatic logo creators, and "McDesign" type places, the art is being slowly lost. There is so much more to it. A certain psychology goes into it as well. You can't learn that from photoshop. And people seem to be willing to settle for sub-standard design if they can save a few bucks.

If they design something than they're a graphic designer regardless of the quality. Maybe not professional but if they show interest they'll pick it up and learn from experience. "Nothing qualifies them" that's you're opinion buddy, isn't fact.. possible fiction :) However I do see your point. Yet nothing puts down "good" designers because they'll still find custom and people wanting to use there services, I'm sure these people won't drive them out of business and most will by have adapted. It's not really for you to say if they're a designer or not though (that's kinda snobs talk)

I sympathize with you on this one. Being a good graphic designer doesn't limit themselves to Adobe products. Good graphic designer are those who make good 'Graphic Designs' regardless of what softwares they are using.