Cecil very rarely answers questions in the forums. You can send questions directly to him using the e-mail address on the main page of the Straight Dope (www.straightdope.com).
I think the nature of this thread will invite speculation and opinion, but since it is asking for Cecil’s opinion specifically I don’t really see it as belonging in IMHO. Since it’s not likely to get a reply from Cecil himself I’m just going to close this thread. Anyone wishing to discuss these topics may do so in the appropriate forum, where many threads on them already exist.