twochai,
Interesting points, with which I agree. I would point out though that the original question was asked in the context of a Cessna 172, hence the focus on GA aircraft. My limited experience in the wonderful Dash 7 has me thinking that it is profoundly more capable of handling a tailwind with predictable handling than a 172 - spoilers for one reason!
I do not suggest that tailwind operations are not necessary from time to time, particularly in Part 25 type aircraft. I do still suggest though that the average C172 flight probably does not need to operate downwind, and such conditions could rapidly exceed the skills of an average 172 pilot.
I think it is worth the effort in such a forum to attempt a balance between the skill set of how to do something at the edge of the norm, as compared to the skill of deciding not to try, because there is not real need!
Cheers,
Pilot DAR