Did Someone Mention Algebra?

Predictably, the NY Times piece, "Is Algebra Necessary," cited in the prior post, has drawn a host of quick critiques. A sampling here:

http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2012/07/30/abandoning-algebra-is-not-the-answer/

http://dropoutnation.net/2012/07/30/why-algebra-matters-and-why-those-who-think-it-doesnt-are-wrong/

http://scientopia.org/blogs/galacticinteractions/2012/07/29/when-andrew-hacker-asks-is-algebra-necessary-why-doesnt-he-just-ask-is-high-school-necessary/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/yes-algebra-is-necessary/2012/07/30/gJQAr6xMKX_blog.html

http://soffer801.wordpress.com/2012/07/30/algebra-is-necessary/

and, finally, Mark Chu-Carroll, as usual, having difficulty expressing his real thoughts ;-) :

http://scientopia.org/blogs/goodmath/2012/07/30/mathematical-illiteracy-in-the-nyt/