I don't think the question is whether to add feathers or not to add feathers, but how many, where, and when? There are many different kinds of feathers and they can definitely enhance many quilt patterns.
I would like to think that I am (becoming) a master of many styles, techniques, and ideas. It is most ideal if the piecer is able to articulate what his or her preferences are on the given quilt. I like to say to people that "there is not just one right answer."