Ozziepost,
You make a very good point:
I know I've raised this before, but to me it seems that without the doctrines and teachings that set the WTS apart from the rest, there's really no reason to join. Wouldn't it be easier (and more satisfying etc) to attend one of the mainstream churches?
I agree. Further, once the ones who leave because of a realization that the WTS is not God's sole channel, (or not even a channel) and doesn't have the "truth" who would be left? The ones left would be the die-hard JWs who can rationalize any world event and anything the WTS does with the fulfillment of God's will and the Bible. Within the "society" these ones find comfort and support believing that they are special, have God's protection and will be rewarded because they stick to the WTS and do what the corporation asks them to do. These die-hards will not like the change to more orthodox beliefs or at least a change to caring about people in general with the demolition of the wall dividing Watchtower followers from the rest of "them" in the "world".
By mainstreaming the WTS stands to lose the die-hards who need a controlling religious body and the ones who will see just as much benefit by joining an alternative mainstream religion. And then there are those who won't bother with any organized religion at all after being fooled by the Watchtower.
It doesn't bode well. At a time of renewed religious feelings the Watchtower's fumbling of the UN matter will only discourage those who were thinking "maybe the WTS does have the truth." The figures for the WTS's first quarter of the service year will tell.
Thirdson
'To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing'