I keep trying to ask this question in different ways but the mods don't publish so I'll try another way:
I see it stated that MCAS is only there because the size and forward placement of the engines on the Max results in stick force reduction as AoA increases and that this characteristic is contrary to FAR requirements.
I also see it stated that the Max is not unstable as a result of the new physical configuration. I ask innocently: Is this known for a fact?
I ask because the MCAS, as a solution, is a brutal way to simply correct a stick force irregularity. Surely a fail passive method to apply extra force to the stick is not a difficult thing to do.
The MCAS FMECA must make an interesting read! But if you absolutely must not stall then it might be justified.
Do we know for sure this version does indeed stall and recover normally like a typical stable aircraft?