> Few would dispute, at least, that high level languages are more powerful than machine language.

I would! =) How is power of language defined?

Level of abstractions, high-level vs low-level? Attractive language syntax (DSL/macro/syntax sugar)? Tools, support and libraries? Community traction, popular, paid-more? Optimized and effective code? Low entry-barrier?

Depending on definition on what powerful language is, winners might become losers and vice versa.