Well, I'm certain that you know far more than I do. I'm a relative rookie.
I think both sides in the article are really trying hard to prove their point. Motorcyclist trying to make things less expensive for the rider; Snell trying to show that their testing is valuable. Both make valid points.
In the future, I think what I will do is try to find a balance between helmets with a good reputation and price. Reputations are usually made by those who have survived a fall and walked away because of the protection they wore.
I like the Arai. It's expensive, but it fits well and feels well made. Will I try another brand in the future? Ask me in a few years!