1. they dont' want input from users. they don't want users tweaking its innards. users are expected to update their workflows and expectations to the 'one true path.'
you know this because?
2. sure there is. if gnome 3 is going the flat-learning-curve/flat-power-curve route...
I agree, Gnome 3 with the defaults sucks, WTF could they not have made tweak tool part of the control panel??? or at least default install. But just grab tweak tool and some extensions and Gnome3 is nice.
3. no they couldn't, well, not as easily. gnome2 is say 90% of what modern users want. it's easier to add the 10% and get it working well, than rewriting half of gnome3 and resyncing their changes with every gnome release.
No need to 're-write' it, just use the components, and tie them together differently, basic simple javascript.
4. talk to the gnome3 devs.. their demagoguery is the problem. their slavish apple chasing attitude is another.
Again, you know this because?
We are not a clone.