absurd.
For road bikes I have 11sp 6800 ultegra, 11sp 5800 105, 9sp ultegra/600 tricolor, 9sp mixed road/mtb touring, 9sp tiagra/105 mix, and 7sp exage sport lx with microshift levers.

1- there is a definite difference between them all. Not just in shifting, but in brakes too.
2- there is a definite difference in materials used, finish, and weight.
3- I absolutely do not select drivetrains based on bragging rights. Many components on my 7 and 9sp bikes are 25-30 years old and they are ridden regularly. While some may buy to impress, many buy to stay up on current industry trends and to stay ahead of the curve. That's no different than most product segments, actually.
4- i made my drivetrains so that the gaps between shifts are minimized when it comes to my typical sweet spot for speed and cadence. A 2x7 has huge shift gaps when it matches the gear range of a 2x11. That isnt placebo and it isnt bragging- its just math playing out in real life.
5- 2x11 has allowed for increased range on road bikes while still conforming to established cranks and limiting shift gaps. This allows more options for cyclists like mixed surface riding that was previously too difficult due to limited gearing. It also allows more cyclists to comfortably spin up inclines that they previously struggled to complete.

that's all real and beneficial for many. No bragging of placebo. Just real access to more riding routes, less bile weight, and higher quality finish.