I prefer the approach they've been using so far, adding petty post hoc rationalizations and "You may fail at x...BUT [insert moralism]", "it's okay", "love yourself" crap would take away the whole meaning. I understand that hollywood feel good approach demands all stories end with such cute winks, but this matter of the fact take on it feels appropriate for hyouka.
I remember when I was in high school, if I met someone like satoshi I'd be envious of his high social intelligence and insight, but none of that matters, if he wants to be able to do what houtaro does (Which is not even something educational systems put so much focus on as memorizing) and doesn't want to settle for what he has, then that's that.
I think, rather than a direct solution, we will get a more indirect one, such as the talented (ie: houtaro) stop taking their powers for granted.
If you think about it, the only one to get over this "expectations" thingy stronger was probably chitanda, "stay true to yourself" is all it comes down to...But we cannot say that makes chitanda a more mature person than satoshi, or etc just like how a person who doesn't care about you is, morally, no better or worse than someone who hates or loves you.
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My respect for oreki's intelligence also increased a lot, the way he turned the situation around in an obvious win-win situaton was downright brilliant. I also defend his morality from claims decrying his "black mail", as the deal benefited both parties I see it as a grey solution that is better than its black/white alternative, I doubt Chitanda's earnestness would do much for Juumonji.
Although I would have preferred juumonji case to have a less "deliberate" cause than a single mastermind, it was explained very solidly mystery wise. From the beggining, Tanabe gave me the impression of someone who redirects his frustrations from direct expressions to indirect ones, his "crime" was not practical at all (which surprised me given hyouka's "mundane" history), but that's what you'd expect from a poetic expression. (It seems, judging by how his conversation started with houtaro, that he rationalized it to himself as a fun contribution to the festival)
Another thing I was hoping for was a change in the four friends status quo, I thought the intense and great build-up was a perfect chance and timing for it, although it might be either too early for the story, or too much to expect from this type of story.