@BOAC: This was posted way back that according to Boeing one or both F/D had failed. I've asked for the source but there was no reply.
RA and F/D failure - I don't get the connection here.
bobcat4: I also fall in your category and it really bewilders me how airplane systems can operate like in this case. There is so much sophistication and yet basic logic to prevent the ultimate deadlock situation is missing. Look at Birgenair - the pitot filled with dirt, automation did nothing here but left the pilots in total state of confusion. That is not well designed automation!