'smart people'
It has been my experience that 'smart people' often fail to completely understand the problem they are keen to solve. GPWS, TCAS, Autoland, and FBW technology are welcome improvements, but do not allow the introduction of low time pilots without reducing overall safety.
Having flown DC-3s to B777s, I would say each aircraft has its difficulties, and (have personally witnessed) that the newer aircraft are NOT easier to fly by inexperienced pilots.
CK