I think that CN is moving in a positive direction. We are getting past the post-Karma order and ideology of "stability" and moving towards chaos. I think that chaos is good for CN because the current order makes the game stagnant, but the order that Doomsphere (if they win) promotes chaos and disorder, which is why I believe that I am fighting on the right side, unlike previous wars where it was always wishy-washy.
Why do you think there is more activity in CN during times of war? Simple: the more conflict there is in CN, the more people want to play. The terrible system of one-two wars a year sucks, and I believe that CN should be in a constant state of strife and conflict. There should be hegemonies, yes, but hegemonies should work towards keeping CN as chaotic as possible, much like pre-Karma NPO did.