I don't think he was talking about present day technology; rather, he was referring to abstract machines.

Whoever taught you computer science must have had a very pessimistic attitude, which is surprising to me as most of the academics I've talked with think the computers of the distant future will have no limitations.

In the preset day, though, we have limited time and must choose our battles carefully. I respect the OP for his attempts, if a little a misguided. Just ask any active member of the Linux kernel and they'll tell you how often they see such people undertake similarly bold approaches which deliver little outcome (and, hopefully, a life lesson...)