... Validation is performed by few parties today, and that is legit ongoing grounds for criticism. As the network grows, that will become less of a concern. ...
You mean because there will be so many suckers at that point the vested interests in Ripple can cash out quite easily?
I agree there would be less concern, for the creators...
No, I mean that additional Validators will come online, helping to ensure ledger integrity.
Also: Ripple Labs will make far more money from the success of Ripple.