Without pilots there's no ATC
I would agree.
and without ATC your flight won't be safe.
I would disagree. That's an extremely broad statement. Perhaps in the 'olden days' ATC had more input. These days, modern aircraft have the equipment to provide the required safety without any ATC input, even GA aircraft are getting this equipment at a good price. This is certainly the case in an en-route phase. Your argument is more valid, perhaps, in the terminal area.
Flow control will never be perfect. In these times, there is so much more information available to make flow better. In Australia it's getting worse,
Why?
In my experience, the
ridiculous minutae?
is perpetuated by Australian branded ATC. Whinging about not getting a 'left or leaving' call. Why? It's alarmed.
I'd suggest getting in touch with this person's manager. This particular frequency has far greater priorities than this tripe.