I think I agree that there's no reason that the awards must reflect historical precedent or some original intent or spirit. However, it's common to appeal to t

I think I agree that there's no reason that the awards must reflect historical precedent or some original intent or spirit. However, it's common to appeal to that sort of thing. How often do people belabor the absence of pedigree of the prize in economics? Those who don't believe the award has a "spirit" shouldn't complain about it being violated. If you don't have any expectations for the Nobel prizes, good for you!