As someone who grew up in the tail end of the hardcore days, I can attest to the fact that it is easier to be a JW now than in the past whether you like it or not. I say "whether you like it or not" is because there was a time when those active in the organization lived and breathed the Bible. Get-togethers focused on talking about the Bible and studying it beyond the meetings.
Not only are there fewer meetings and lower hourly requirements to pioneer, but Witnesses are discouraged in studying the Bible outside official Witness meetings. So much so, that if you do, you risk being labeled an "apostate".
Studying now includes fewer monthly publications and watching videos or tv rather than reading.
The religion is truly dumbed down to the lowest common denominator. Not only is the issue of avoiding higher education affecting Witnesses, but the lower quality public education in the United States has created an uber-sheep.