[M3n2c3]

Perhaps, although I did not really post the link in relation to the discussion on music, but rather your insinuation that he was a basement shut-in. Taking in to account his real-world achievements (running a successful business, organizing charity, having a family, etc.), I'd say that his expression of curiosity regarding the concept that a controller could emulate - or become - an instrument, and his subsequent study of the physical nature of instruments, are not the result of a supposed unhealthy exposure to video games. The line about, "crass physical laws," was a tongue-in-cheek exaggeration, but I guess you'd have to be more familiar with his style of writing to pick that from the limited context of the lines I posted.

Still, I don't really see his statements as being so ridiculous. His point was merely that musical instruments are generally designed not for ease of use, but rather with a singular purpose in mind: the creation of sound that is pleasing to the human ear. This usually leaves them difficult to handle and/or learn. He then goes on to note that the use of a musical instrument does not by default result in the creation of actual music.

It's an obvservation of the readily apparent that does not necessarily need to be pointed out, sure.

But it's true, and the fact that he plays video games has no bearing on that.

In the end, I think the point is that too many people place an excessive amount of value on things that they perceive to be, "real," "traditional," or "legitimate," without giving consideration to the skill that the alternative might require. It often comes down to a prejudiced, "old vs. new," perspective.

I could just as easily say that racing cars is a waste of time, and we should all run track instead.

With the right software, the lines between musical instruments and video game or computer instruments could definitely be blurred. The creation of actual music requires talent and effort no matter what, even if it is done on a computer. . . but if the computer itself is easier to use than traditional musical instrument, does that automatically decrease its value? I'd say not.