I would respectfully disagree that it doesn't seem anyone in this thread - or on this site - knows what they're talking about.
On the one hand, are folks who accept the 100+ year old understanding of exposure as the brightness of the scene per unit area as projected by the lens on the plate, film, or sensor. A list of references documenting this has been provided for the benefit of anyone seeking or desiring confirmation.
On the other hand, are folks who have embraced the so-called exposure triangle and are so deeply committed to that belief that any evidence or rational argument to the contrary is simply dismissed.
Fortunately for those who embrace the mythical ET, it's a belief system that doesn't prevent a person from doing brilliant photography. But neither does that belief system empower a person to achieve their full potential.
In any endeavor, be it personal or professional, an accurate understanding of the fundamentals empowers a person to advance and grow. A foundational understanding based on misinformation is limiting.
Each of us is free tp choose on which side of the fence we're going to stand.
Regardless of where that may be for... well, anyone, please share a photo or two now and again in the photography forums. We may choose to live in different realities when it comes to the fundamentals of photography but we can all share in appreciation of a quality image.