Seems to be a trend to have some intern tracking fuel and publishing results often stating that no extra fuel required......but first time a costly diversion or situation arises I never hear of them getting sacked because they were wrong. You never see any data, as it is quite difficult to assess, on the cost associated with diversions, cancellations due to running out of duty time, missed connections etc.....
My analogy is health insurance.....I could have saved money last year by not paying it as we had no major health issues.( I know that now), but God forbid something happens to your child and you will be glad you have it.
Every case I have ever heard of a pilot having to divert due to min fuel, always crucified because he/she should have known to take more.
Safety has a price, better training, maintenance, reasonable fuel contingency......all cost money, but there needs to be a happy medium