It doesn’t much actual thinking to understand what spam is and how it degrades the chain.

Yes, which is why you need a higher order of thinking to see that it isn't an existential crisis; just a sub-optimal externality that nobody in charge can acknowledge without swallowing their pride.

The change is not complicated or controversial. The rationale for the change was in the thread “Relax OP_RETURN standardness restrictions”

But the plans were on display…” “On display? I eventually had to go down to the cellar to find them.” “That’s the display department.” “With a flashlight.” “Ah, well, the lights had probably gone.” “So had the stairs.” “But look, you found the notice, didn’t you?” “Yes,” said Arthur, “yes I did. It was on display in the bottom of a locked filing cabinet stuck in a disused lavatory with a sign on the door saying ‘Beware of the Leopard.

The mailing list is the place where these issues are discussed. It was also referenced multiple times in a PR that introduced the change. It’s not hard to find, nor is surprising.

This is why this place looks insane to psychonormative people. A mailing list is supposed to be where the money policy is hashed out.

There is no perfect place. The mailing list has its advantages. It’s a standard communication mechanism software projects used for years, like the Linux kernel. It is decentralized. You need to subscribe first, but once you’re in the discussion, you can also reach people directly via CC. It’s also append only, which is important for preserving history.