I don't disagree that the system is broken and in need of overhaul. I just don't think the solution is to roll the clock back 20 years. Incremental sales of tickets through partners are simply too lucrative.

Personally, If I were to design the system you would earn RDMs based on dollars spent (whether through partner activities or ticket purchases) and EQMs for flying only(weighted for fare class), with the caveat being that I would give EQMs on award flights. That way, nobody can "buy" status, but a high value credit card spender still has the opportunity to achieve status by earning lots of award flights.