I sort of agree. I didn't quote those sections in the sense of recommending that the advice in them be followed strictly, and to the letter. Also, ESR is known to talk a bit that way - sort of overzealous, as you put it. But that is part of the fun of reading his stuff. As long as one takes it with a pinch of salt, and common sense, it is okay, and one usually gets to learn something from his writings.