::::::::1) The "Dual-pane vs. tri-pane" argument: the command line on the bottom is a line, not a pane, if you ask me. Anyway, regardless of my opinion (or yours, for that matter) see #3.
2) The "too evolved to be called clones" argument. Just look at them. They even look like Norton Commander. They run in the console (Windows Explorer does not). The panes are drawn with line-drawing characters (Windows Explorer's aren't). Their lineage is totally obvious.
3) I can't believe you're missing the point again!!! USAGE IN QUALIFIED CIRCLES IS ALL THAT MATTERS!!!!!!!!!