Segregated Witness (SegWit) is well-along the way to being implemented and deployed as a soft-fork.

Facts:

• SegWit eliminates most forms of transaction malleability.
• Discounts input scripts in comparison to other block content.
• Adds a new function/constraint to the Coinbase transaction by requiring it to contain the root of the SegWit data.
• Provide a capacity increase upon adoption.
• Makes future changes to Bitcoin Script easier.

Questions:

• What other methods could achieve the above benefits?
• Why was Segregated Witness chosen instead?
• Is there an alternative that is less complex to introduce when regarding the complete picture, i.e. technical, economical, and social aspects?

Intent: The above is a criticism that is frequently stated in parts of the Bitcoin community, and I hope to provide an anchor for a visible collection of expertise on the matter.