But at the same time, the use of the Mercator as the standard default map in situations that have nothing to do with ocean navigation for literally hundreds of years

My question continues that thread.
And my point (subtle it may be) is that when something is wildly useful, it sticks.
Despite not being universally good.

And to change from it you need more than just a slight advantage.
That's why the UN didn't think about changing map projection.

Is that the answer to my question?