Minimalist shoes are just tools that serve a purpose in the right situations, just like running watches or water bottles, they are advertised here and given away as prizes so can’t be all that bad. Some folk don't see it because they don't put themselves in the situations where they need them.
The danger in making distinctions between barefoot and minimalism is that you create a two tier system in a movement when everyone’s efforts should be celebrated equally.
Ken and many others have good advice for beginners, taking things slowly and building a strong base over time, starting barefoot to get sensory feedback and good form. But it doesn't end there, from a certain point we all branch off and find our own paths, some will need shoes to achieve their goals and stay safe whilst others won't. The barefoot movement has a big umbrella of many colours that should shade us all, at least that's how i've always seen it.
Nobody knows the personal challenges folk face to get off their butts and do something positive instead of sedentary, we should be celebrating that, barefoot or not. We are individuals, with individual needs and aspirations, not robots off a production line all beating the same drum.
Not directed at anyone, I happily run barefoot and shod, it makes no difference to me because i’m awesome, just like you all are.