Way to assume things. First off I did level multiple jobs including the popular ones in FFXI because I enjoyed trying different aspects of the game which was the point I was trying to make, "trying new things". The way it's set up now people are experimenting, which is a good thing. I've no idea why you brought up gear because I was talking about jobs.
As for creating a "feeling of urgency" it can be done other ways. Like using skills at the right time to weaken the monsters or any other form of strategy that requires you to be on top of your game. Why does someone need a death penalty to get a sense of urgency?
Again the only thing it leads to is a time sink and cookie cutter ways of doing things. No one will want to try new things for fear of losing something.
Also what is with people wanting the penalty to gear upon death? This is another thing I don't get. Most of the community wanted cuts to gear damage which Square listened to. Now people are asking for gear to get damaged upon death? wut?