Socrates, I commend you for starting something interesting that could become a great DIALOGUE. What I'm saying is; I'd like to see you enter into the reasoned debate on the subject instead of your usual 'no that's way off the mark' comments to people's responses. You are asking others to comment and reply to what you've started here so the least you can do is give clear, concise thinking of your take.
Anyway for what it's worth my thinking....
The markets are a living breathing changing organism. They change by the minute depending on the 'players'. There is news, fundys, technicals, etc, etc. You just have to see what's unfolding in front of your eyes. (Let's not get started on the 'everything is known in advance debate!)
All three things are important from your question;
1- method (system
, edge, whatever it's called; your advantage). You have to have something that works more often than it doesn't.
2/3- Application of the method and applicant are pretty much together. Pull the trigger when X happens. Are you in control of yourself enough to apply the method/ system/ edge. Get out when Y happens. It's about expecting something to happen and dealing with the outcome should it happen or not happen.
What you have said above is all semantics at the end of the day and I don't believe a system is necessarily inert.
Got the makings for great debate here.... come on lads get stuck in.