I think you're seriously missing the point. The point is not "employees for company X are all awesome!", but rather "company X is a good filter". This is no different than saying "a CS degree is a good filter"; it's not the be-all end-all, but it's a nice initial filter.
(Note: I have neither a CS degree (or even a high school diploma) nor have I worked for any of the companies mentioned.)
Perhaps I was a bit harsh (I don't feel bad), but I don't think I'm missing the point. They are attempting to create an artificial scarcity that promotes their idea of what a good dev is. It is elitist.
"They are attempting to create an artificial scarcity that promotes their idea of what a good dev is."
No. They are catering to a group of people who specifically care about pedigree. They are trying to replace the role of the recruiters who do the same thing.
Yeah, but this 'pedigree' being thrown around in these comments is starting to look more and more like blatant discrimination, which was something the recruiters hide pretty well.
(Note: I have neither a CS degree (or even a high school diploma) nor have I worked for any of the companies mentioned.)