I've been leveling my low levels with mid level friends trying to get into the game, even as a low level I can equip cures/buffs and we can kill without downtime making exp better. I can get exp on my low level and they can still chain by killing equal level mobs for their level. We both enjoy being able to do this and I'm pretty sure neither of us would be playing even half as much as we are if this wasn't possible.

I don't think the powerleveling situation right now is as severe as people are trying to make it. People aren't "bypassing" leveling/progression, they are simply making it a little faster and more enjoyable. FFXI took a similar path with Abyssea and leveling there, and I fully support the current powerleveling. Right now people are excited about it and some people are abusing it, but over time the dust will settle and it won't be as rampant as it is now.