I propose that GNOME should offer a pure black and white visual mode, and that this mode should be the default. Color is not neutral: it constantly competes for attention, introduces unnecessary visual noise, and can be distracting during focused work. A monochrome interface reduces cognitive load, improves clarity, and allows content rather than decoration to take priority. For many users, especially those who value concentration, minimalism, or accessibility, black and white is not a limitation but a usability improvement. Making this the default would better align GNOME with its stated goals of simplicity, focus, and calm, while still allowing color to remain an optional preference rather than an assumption.
As a side effect, the GNOME desktop is rendered better on older monochrome devices, and even e-book readers may become an option.