There are probably as many different opinions on this as there are Captains. The trick, IMO, is to base that opinion on a bit of knowledge rather than just inheriting an opinion off your first pilot group, or influential Captain etc.
The fact that we are discussing this and sharing info is a good start.
I think it comes down to a simple choice;
A) Shall I save an apparently small amount of fuel knowing that across the fleet, over the financial year, it will add a lot to the profitability of the company. or;
B) Shall I look after No.1 and who cares about the company they don't care about me, I want to get there quick.
A lot of pilots think that flying LRC will see them arriving overhead the field with the most gas in tanks. Thats a bit scary but true.
A lot of pilots don't know that ECON accounts for wind but LRC does not.
The more we can analyse the opinions of our peers with the mindset that we might learn something, the better.
My 2cents.
Framer