Many of the breakthroughs of the past century were done in times of war (between WW1 and WW2), since there was a real interest in having applicable research. From this perspective, I'd rather have slower progress rates...

Because his "no-compromise" attitude has been proven right for many years. I envy him for being consistent thru all these years. Unfortunately, it is more confortable to live in a grey area, because it gives more benefits in the short term. Even if you think he is wrong, he has been holding his opinion for many years. That fact by itself deserves recognition and respect...