Actually, Low Mass dates back earlier than the 16th. Century. Not exactly sure when, though.
I agree with you. I think Low Mass, in hindsight, should never have been invented. The true, normative form of the Mass is the Solemn High Mass. Hence, there is no such thing as a "reduced" liturgy in the Eastern Rites/Orthodox. Liturgical minimalism has bred the "Low Mass Mentality" and this mentality was damaging both pre and post V2, just manifested in different ways.
Whatever restorations or future reforms are to be done, they need to go a long way to eradicate a liturgically minimalist mentality among the faithful.
"I agree with you. I think Low Mass, in hindsight, should never have been invented."
Hhhhhm. Do you perceive a possible contradiction here with the way things should work within the Church? What did our Lord say?
Mat 16:18 "...I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
Jhn 16:13 "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:..."
This is a marvelous phrase and spot on descriptive of the dumbed down liturgy.