Is there anyone here who has ever had a problem with Drupal successfully solved through this list?
Yes, I have had problems solved both in this mailing list and on #drupal-support.
It seems to me that every time anyone poses a problem here they are given a huge run around looking at everything EXCEPT the Drupal system itself.
Unfortunately, usually there is a puzzle. In most cases you need to have a more coprehensive view on a problem in order to help people. Most people are unwilling to answer with "oh, this is due to X", if there is a strong possibility for Y,Z,A,B, .... That is simply wrong. If you manage to get more comprehensive description of your problem, you'll get better mileage.
Is it simply that the Drupal developers have begun to think they are perfect and infallible and their system cannot possibly have any bugs, despite the fact that oh so many of the modules have warnings regarding potential bugs, and patched up solutions?
Hmm, sense frustration here. No Drupal is not perfect, and will never be. It develops fast, which means it has permanent growth aches.
Every single drupal support answer is a gesture of good will from the person answering, regardless of their motives. Please, respect the people who volunteer their time and skills.
Cheers, Vlado