It is true, the real gear heads will motor on, the rest will fall away....but..I know too many people who I would still consider real gear heads who put their families first with the little money they have in this economy we have now. They still love their cars and still do hit the streets, but they are a lot less risky then they were, for many of the reasons I mentioned before.
As far as real motor heads not caring about the scene, I agree and don't. I agree one should not let others influence them with what they want or with what is trendy but on the other hand it is a whole lot funner and motivating to be involved with others of like mind. It breeds competition and furthers our rides. If left alone most would only go so far and if there is no scene to race or show in...gets kind of stale. I would still work on my car if nobody ever saw it, but it is better to show that work to others once done. That is part of the reason why we are all on here. I think it will all make those who are really into it focus on their cars quality more and the scene will build back up again, in a better quality way