There are a lot of ways to skin a cat. I doubt that most of how Linux works is really ideal at this point. (Which is not to say it's easy to replace or impractical).

But that structure/API is very similar to many similar patterns in computing. Look at Smalltalk or OOP to some degree. Maybe extend it with operational transforms.

I think there are a lot of interesting alternative ways to look at operating systems and many developments over the years. Such as Plan 9, MirageOS, and several other projects.

Also just to clarify I love cats and need a better metaphor.