[zo1]

"a) A small core API instead of a sprawling standard class library"

Using adjectives to accentuate, does not an argument make. "small/core" and "sprawling" all have loaded meanings. And if you wish to convert anyone but the already-converted sub-culture inhabitants, you should probably quantify what you mean and why it's a benefit.

[twerquie]

I think my point is clear when you read what I wrote as a whole instead of dissecting parts. I'm allowed to editorialize a bit, am I not? I'm not a robot nor am I writing my thesis on the subject, we're just talking here.