JJ's concern was over proximity to persons and strucutres... no
difference, save the descending heavy is less controlable than the high
energy glider. As for "pattern roulette," dogmatic monikers don't
change the fact that competent pilots function well in the environment,
as has been proven again and again for decades. Where problems arise is
when unschooled pilots start imposing their poor judgement, generally
creating a world of hurt for themselves and occasionally others. My
argument, and I think it is a valid one, is that moving that poor
judgement a mile away from the airport doesn't solve any problems. It
simply makes them less obvious to casual observers. And the fact that
there appear to be so many theories purporting to explain the dynamics
of the finish cylinder indicates that this hasn't been particularly
well thought out either.

As an example, I can state without hesitation that inserting yourself
into the pattern after a finish with half a dozen other gliders is much
easier than joining the same number low in a weak thermal and
maintaining safe separation while maximizing climb. That is hard work,
and it's done with very few options for maneuvering should a member of
the gaggle decide to do something untoward. Or if someone else enters
who lacks skills or depth perception.