I don't know which device you tried with Linux but Galaxy Tab 10.1 is not working on my Linux even though every library and package related to MTP are installed.
"hardware buttons"? this article isn't defending android's hardware buttons. it's defending navigation buttons. whether they are hardware buttons or onscreen buttons is irrelevant in the context.
It's a matter of personal preference. Also depends on how big your hand is. I am, for instance, not satisfied with my 4 inch screen and selling my Nexus S to buy a 4.3 inch android.
0.6mm at its thinnest point, and 0.5mm thicker at its thickest point (the latter being a sticking point, UK's Advertising Standards Authority ruled against Samsung's claim of thinnest smartphone on the market on these grounds)
People know you didn't intend to be a sexist. They are just trying to raise your awareness on this issue.