I'm conflicted on the name/issue. I don't have any issues with Linux on embedded systems, because I'd use a minimal init with that one single app it should be running. (Or as mentioned in other comment, build your minimal distro yocto-style) RPi is a low spec general computer at this point. The idea of running gnome on an embedded system just doesn't make sense in my mind...

RPi took the form factor that was used for industrial control boards and made it into a usable desktop... which people use as a desktop (or home server). But it created a segment which really is neither. And a lot of the software just isn't written with that segment in mind. Maybe as it gets more popular, people will pay more attention. But currently it seems more of an expectations issue.