Reading through these posts is somewhat hilarious. Obviously a guy with medical problems should take extreme caution if he wanted to try less of a shoe or even more of a shoe. There are several people attracted to 'less shoe', simply because they had a medical issue and tried many alternatives until they found something that worked for them.
There are also people that are repulsed by the idea of barefoot running and those that are attracted to it... and vica versa. Why? Does it really matter? People do what works for them, stop judging. Yes, some may just want attention, but until you have given an honest attempt at BOTH sides then you are just making assumptions. And when you do, people can take what they want from your experience... being hardheaded and trying to justify your repulsion without giving the other side a shot will be your loss.
Personally, I have only recently started running, but a minimalist shoe is what I prefer... actually feeling the dirt, grass, etc, just makes for a better running experience. Cement is uncomfortable to run on, but probably because I never really adjusted my gait to properly spread out the pressure. Perhaps more cushion would help... but I think more experience will too. The bottom line, whether you are going for pro or a good experience, try it out, do what works for you and stop looking down on those that have a different view.