(disclaimer: I am not a CFI, an expert, or aware of the latest updates by the NTSB on the accidents so take what I say with a grain of salt.)

The problem with the MAX isn't automation. It's lack of training. This goes way deeper than an MCAS failure or software malfunction, it's a problem with the mentality with automation.

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An issue with automation is depending on it, which is an issue that has been around for a little bit but is getting progressively better and better. There are thousands of other aircrafts in the world with an MCAS system, but there aren't thousands dropping like flies. The issue is that the pilots were failed to maintain control of the aircraft.

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I do not believe that pilots can be replaced by automation, or that pilots should have less control. What pilots should have is all the technological capability, but also the necessary training that goes with flying such a complex machine.