In architecture, more than web design, you have to design for the user. And you have to get it right first time.

This explains why architecture students are encouraged to copy from successful designs and why book such as A Pattern Language become established points of reference.

Donald Norman's reasoning is valid but he is also trying to sell you a service.

David Heinemeier, as you say, is his own target audience and therefore knows exactly what needs to be done.

The rest of us have the option of either employing the likes of Donald Norman and/or learn from what has been built before, what is tried and tested and works well.

I would add this to your final list.