Originally Posted by mrfuji3
Intent matters for alignment...
But there's infinite different ways that you can play a Good character.

This is correct, but it requires thought and creativity on the part of the players. There are many ways that smart groups of players have followed the Alignment rules to create interesting and thematically consistent adventures, and you should be able to do this on your own without expecting the PHB to hold your hand through it. Attempting to treat RP mechanics like a videogame ruins D&D. The fact is that morality and law are indispensible elements of a fantasy adventure, and Alignment is an efficient and enjoyable way to include them.