In the 1990s, the idea of electric RC planes were ridiculed as well. I am moderately optimistic that 1:1 planes will eventually follow, as RC electric cars became "good enough" and 1:1 electric cars are a reality now.
Goes to show if you want to get somewhere, first you have to start. The other top trending thread on making a bit of progress every day comes to mind, it's amazing how far we can get over a long period of constantly making small improvements.