We gave loads of test images before the release of GNOME 3.0. The "no going back", we've been making loads of changes based on feedback. I've listed some of the

We gave loads of test images before the release of GNOME 3.0. The "no going back", we've been making loads of changes based on feedback. I've listed some of these changes in the 3.2 release notes. Wording like "fuck off" is completely unacceptable; I either warn or ban people (everyone, random person, developer, etc) for that. "A few guys at the top": That is not how it works. If you're respected, people listen to you. That is how it works within GNOME. Saying "valid and thoughtful criticism": valid maybe for you. But GNOME isn't about supporting every different idea. If an idea completely goes against the thought behind it (quite simply: focus on one task at a time), then yeah, use something else. Having an idea and going for that, to some that comes across as arrogant. But simply stated, GNOME is not right for everyone. That is what is meant with this. But at the same time, there is an extension system in place and loads of code is in javascript, loads of stuff can be done via gobject introspection (meaning: access libraries easily via javascript). GNOME 3.0 was the initial release. Further improved with 3.2, more design ideas will be implemented in 3.4, etc. Not saying 3.0 is bad (IMO, it was great), but eh.. there is a goal and it hasn't been achieved. I've been around during GNOME 2.0, a lot of the feedback was the same. I think your impression is off.