It's a 'cute' but nearly pointless debate...especially for 'Autopians'. Anyone on this site is to one degree or another obsessed with paint correction/protection and will likely invest whatever time and money that's necessary to maintain a shiny, clean ride...and the compliments that go with it. (I'm remembering a couple of times I gave co-workers a ride and they commented on how immaculate the ride was...I guess they mostly rode around in rolling trash bins! :mellow
I think we can say that carnuba yields a deeper, brighter shine, but is somewhat short lived. Sealants and polymers have a softer sheen but last longer.
So what's most important - a brighter shine or a longer, better protection? 'Bright shine - long lasting' ("Great taste - less filling").
For some Autopians, 'waxing' once a month (or more) is no big deal. For others, perhaps obsessed, but more 'lazy', continue to search for the holy grail of a good look that lasts a long time...only achieved by a sealant or polymer coating.
So it's really just a choice. today's shine vs. tomorrow's longer term protection. Each will have it's defenders but neither is right or wrong.
Now I live in the northeast, where the weather is crappy (including real WINTER) 8 months out of the year. So I will invest [more] time weekly in spring/summer, but come fall, I need the best long term protection I can get with weekly trips to the PW bay.