GP is correct. The Quora answer has a false dilemma that you've just perpetuated here, viz. that an OO program cannot use a compact representation. But there a

GP is correct. The Quora answer has a false dilemma that you've just perpetuated here, viz. that an OO program cannot use a compact representation. But there are standard patterns for using a compact representation of data for domain-model objects. The article's author isn't just unaware of them, they've written a petulant, arrogant article demonstrating their own lack of experience and adaptability.