This is one of the very few times I've seen Steve back-off of a provocative statement; whatever made that happen does not bode well for Google and I think my point stands.

I don't get the impression that he was "forced" to back off, but rather that he accidentally posted something that was meant for internal consumption in public. I think it's perfectly within his rights to delete the post - most people don't talk the same way with their co-workers as they do in public, and it's perfectly understandable.

I completely get that now, and I retract my comments. I'm sorry if I cast any undue aspersions.

It may have been a case of not wanting to embarrass his former employer, Amazon.

That absolutely could be. I shouldn't judge. Apologies.