philipsmith

Fake credentials are a real problem in not only Aikido but in all walks of life. Would you consult a doctor who had made up his own form of medicine or who had only comleted one year of med. school?
I use this analogy as I have ex students now claiming to be (extremely) high Yudansha and as a Chartered Physiotherapist I have also come across "Physiotherapists" who frankly have little or no knowledge of treating injuries and are dangerous!
Proper accreditation is important because it protects the consumer (in this case the Aikido student) who can expect a reasonable core knowledge from their instructor.
The issue is who will accredit who?
As a beginner I would be very dubious if my prospective instructor could not show affiliation to a recognised body such as the Aikikai, Yoshinkan etc.