My guess is that the idea to include a "theme framework" in the default install would be to have a basic "parent" theme, and an example "child" theme.

Of course, the above-quoted statement is such a compelling argument against the idea that nothing further needs to be said. :/

Perhaps what he *really* means is that *he* personally thinks the theme parent-child framework is stupid?

And I still contend that there's no reason to include Hello Dolly in the default install (but that's an argument for another comment thread).