Mike,
I have two immediate reactions to your effort. The first is appreciation for your concern to improve the state of architecture for practitioners and clients alike. The second is appreciation for your sense of unknowing. Maybe what you propose makes sense, but maybe not. I commend you and thank you for both aspects.
My questions relate to the disconnect between the pragmatist and the artist. Each can do a little of the other if they are lucky, but my experience suggests that one is at heart one or the other. I happen to be an artist. I paint, I draw, I write, play and record music, I write poetry. Oh, yes, I have a small practice of architecture, made smaller by the sins of others (that is another story), and clients for whom I suggest, cajole, comfort, confound, and amuse. I am very good at what I do. But I do not consider myself an expert, for there is always at least one other way to accomplish that which I prefer.
My view is that the Architect is the Guardian of the Culture. For me that is far more serious than being expert at mitigating between humans and things. I suspect it may be harder to define as well. Nevertheless, I take the long view, perhaps naively, optimistically, that the purpose of a society is to become a culture. We may have been on the right path once, but no more. Our task as Architects, our responsibility, is critical and unpopular. Why has the AIA not resoundingly decried the inane redevelopment in lower Manhattan? Why do so many think it heroic? Nothing there has been for the citizens. Nothing has been for the people.
I know, I ramble. But I, too, think often about the state of the profession and the surroundings in which we are forced to scramble to earn a living. I am not convinced that the effort you propose is the best way forward.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express these thoughts. I expect you know they are sent with the greatest respect for what you hope to achieve.
Best wishes,
Phil