IMO, there's absolutely nothing wrong with brifters on a bike - especially where they're period appropriate. Like maybe something from the mid- or late-1990s or later.

And if someone wants to do a retro-mod to update an older classic frame, I've got little problem with that either. Their bike, their call. If it keeps them riding it, in my book that's a good thing.

My take: ride whatever suits you, and I'll do the same. But if we happen to meet, don't tell me what I'm riding on any given day is junk and that the bike you're riding is "way better". I'll do likewise.