While the high prices Apple charges for upgrades is a legitimate argument, what exactly is wrong with them offering a lower cost, lower spec option for those who might want it?
Previously, if you wanted the MacBook Pro chassis, you had no choice but to pay $2,000. If that was too expensive or was more than you needed, you were stuck with an Air or the old-school 13" Pro.
Now, the $2000 level is still the same. They just added another cheaper option.
To be clear, I do think 16GB should be the minimum standard for Pro, but within the context of their existing model lineup, it could be an interesting option for some people.