It really does make developers appear to be "dumber" because they lose their edge. The wild, adrenalin-filled world of programming in C/C++ and having to worry about overwriting a random part of your memory with pointers or whatever the hell else you are doing (most things can mess if your computer if you make a mistake with them) keeps programmers alive. By always being on their toes, C/C++ programmers are more given towards coming up with innovative and creative algorithms/design paradigms. In essence, C#'s number one advantage over C/C++ (its feeling of security), is a double-edged sword. Sure, it's good for writing quick programs, but it isn't good for innovation, which is key in today's uber-competitive world. After all, if it were a perfect language, professional video games would be coded in it to save time.

I agree. C/C++ keeps people on their toes and thinking; thus allowing more opportunities for inventive design patterns and original products. QED