Some of us think that the 1954 definition is somewhat restrictive in scope and does not conform to most peoples views.

The 1954 definition is just an example of a particular group of people trying to force their views upon the rest of the world. Just face the fact that it didn't work. The 1954 definition does not fit the music that most of us call folk; which is why you get so many arguments when you discuss 'Folk Music'.

As Q says "the song's the thing! ".