You're right; lots of people will repeat vague criticisms of the admissions process, without really thinking about the implications. Especially the implication, "Then what would replace it?" Given what we have to work with, what, specifically would be a more fair or less game-able system? Would there be anything less susceptible to Goodhart's Law? I don't really know. I think finding the answer would probably take more research than one application essay is worth, though.