I don't manicure my lawn and I've lost no money and no status. As long as I don't pose a fire hazard, the government leaves me alone.
Some of the lawn care obsession is a self-imposed disease. And some of it is baked in local ordinances and difficult to avoid. But I choose to lay the blame at the feet of the individuals. Because it's funny how so many men bend over backwards for THIS perceived social obligation, but are fucking pricks when confronted on how badly they've been parking their pickup truck.
Don't like dandelions, then go back in time and tell your ancestors not to bring invasive species into this country. My back lot is covered with poison oak that flowers every year, at least it's native. Nature made it unpleasant for some reason so I'm OK with letting it stay.