The problem with the mentor system

[SoranRigel]

And who is to say that only sprouts need help? Why restrict the Novice Network to only sprouts and returnees?
FF seems to go out of its way to isolate people. No method to apply to Free Companies in game, no way to talk with people in the world beyond your local area...

We don't need a crown or a special network to help others.
This is really strange in FFXIV, because any member of the group, in theory, should be willing to help. This is in our common interest. So FFXIV is essentially the most antisocial game I've ever played. This is very sad.