I think a fundamental concept that is relatively ignored in press (mainstream or non-fringe at least) is in business priorities.
As the essay points out, Boeing made decisions based on market (financial) factors all along the way. Of course they did - almost all companies do. Because it's so common, we forget it's not a RULE that cost, shareholder value, profit, etc. must be the final judgement.
Certainly any company that might prioritize safety (as in the case of a people-carrier) or some other non financial focus may not be as attractive to investors, in some cases - particularly where human life is concerned - maybe that's ok.
I know this is a bit sensational of me to suggest, but Walmart could make an airplane. They have the funds to do so if they wanted (they would just buy a company; that's the quick way to get rolling). And if the Walmart airline charged half of what other airlines charged, you can be sure a whole lot of people would fly it. And sure, after enough flights, the fatalities per flight would become uncomfortable to most flyers.
The point is, it's a very long game. If people are not willing to consider the long game, they are basically gambling. I fly a lot. I almost always choose my flights based on cost/convenience. I didn't previously avoid 737 MAXs. (I would now, but they're all grounded anyway.) That said, if I know an airline cuts every corner to lower the price and increase the profits, I will certainly choose the next more expensive airline that doesn't behave so poorly. In this case it's the manufacturer, and the consumer has much less choice where that is involved.
But let's get back to the point. If Boeing were to fall behind Airbus in the 737/A320 race, would that really be such a terrible thing? Would the cost be human life, or might it be some stock price level? As an investor, do you really care about your shareholder value more than human life?
I like to fly. It can actually be fun. And I really like to visit lots of places in the world, eat lots of awesome food, and experience different cultures. I don't want to die because of some shareholder value goal (fuck you). I will die, and maybe it's tomorrow, but it shouldn't be for a stupid reason unless I choose it (here, hold my beer.)