Alt coins are not needed - they deflate Bitcoin.
The main problem with decentralisation is the amount of knob rots creating idiotic coins and there is no one to stop/punish them for they're disregard of Bitcoin.
Is it possible that altcoins will define the next step for bitcoin? I think they already have. Look at the number of people that mine things like doge, or EAC. They are increasing the usage of bitcoin in the process. They are providing reach to bitcoin that would otherwise be impossible to people that can't afford ASICs.The main problem with decentralisation is the amount of knob rots creating idiotic coins and there is no one to stop/punish them for they're disregard of Bitcoin.
If it were not for the altcoins, BTC might not have gotten overstock, tiger direct, etc.
I do think that these forums are ridiculous though. Dedicated moderation and the creation of some sub forums would help a lot.