I agree with this article and I do not see the conflict between more direct activities/projects and theoretical activities/projects. If people leave EA, just because others are trying to do something more tangible even though it might not have the biggest potential by current ea theory, they might not be so dedicated to the cause after all.
I understand, “more abstract” activities are prefered, but trashing all direct possibilities doesn’t seem right. Especially if some of those direct activities would not happen otherwise and it keeps people closer to those “abstract ideas” which are very important.
In the end, everything is direct action. Changing a career is a direct action, but not everyone is able to do it all the time. It is important for groups to have the ability to engage people in tangible or more abstract way.
I think this could diversify ea ideas, members, and avoid it to be a group of mathematicians and philosophers talking together, about their favourite subjects.
If we have: impact = one life saved = 100%
and several organizations assign this impact to themselves
There is still just one life saved
but several organizations are taking together more than 100% credit for it
100% != 200%