Balancing means running precise numbers, weighing numbered benefits against defensive/utility benefits (like Air savant perks) and other rather difficult considerations.

Nerfing means slapping an ability with a debilitating change that makes you not want to play the game. It's using a sledge hammer when a scalpel was called for, and the consequence to player fun, be damned.

Sometimes people call balances nerfs. TWF monster build dmg was out of control. Changing tempest I and twf mechanics was right on the line. It was required, but a little heavy-handed. Some tears did roll, but I didn't see anyone really lose any sleep over it. But, that was a close one.

However, when you change mechanics that are fun, like stacking debuffs that you weave into your spell rotation, then you draw my ire. Changes should be more fun. I don't care if you change the debuff to 10% extra dmg and let me stack it again... the stacking is the fun part! Make them independent so you can't just bring 5 cold savants! I don't care! Yes, some inane raid leaders will insist on getting one cold, one earth, one air savant. Who cares? And yes, no stacks is better than every raid leader asking for "need 5 cold savants!" in the LFM.

But stacking = fun, so figure it out please.