I think people confuse what the meaning of "higher level" is. I think of higher level as a higher level of modeling, NOT a higher pursuit in general in the hobby. A higher level of modeling IS measurable in detail and accuracy, while a higher pursuit of the hobby is NOT measurable.
I love mpc era trains and always have. I don't see that pursuit as being any lesser but most MPC items don't hold up well as models. Likewise, I have a friend who is building a tremendous proto 48 layout. He also has a collection of Postwar items that would be the envy of many.