It also - for that same reason - doesn't have a dual mode network that can solve a ton of problems. 'Masternodes' are not a separate network, they are the same daemon as regular wallets just running in an extended mode. They are just as decentralised (because anyone can set one up).

It's a question of homogeneous vs heterogeneous network function, not one of centralisation or decentralisation.

It was the fact that networks started to diversify in function that lead to the explosion of the internet. Client-server computing and service oriented architectures massively increased the efficiency and power of software. Darkcoin / Dash has found a way to extend this paradigm in a decentralised way - i.e. instead of distinct clients and servers, a node can operate in both modes and be reproduced as many times as you like throughout the network.

I don't agree with what DeboraMeeks posted above about Dash not being "around in 5 years" - not that nonsense about a "rickety bus". I think this architecture is solving so many problems right now that it will come to be seen as the obvious way forward for many applications.