Some interesting thoughts there Charlie, thanks.
I also like Britney as an artist - although I'm not sure she's a great role model for her younger fans.
She has made 2 blindingly good pop singles (Baby, One More Time + Toxic)...which is 2 more than most.

As to whether you can somehow downgrade an artist because their input into the final product is limited, I'm not so sure. Surrounding yourself with the good people of the moment, whether it be songwriters, musicians, producers etc. is all part of the superstar skill set. Just ask David Bowie, MIchael Jackson (fair enough, we can't!) and Tina Turner...
This subject came up recently regarding Michael Jackson's Off the Wall (or is that Quincy Jones' Off the Wall?)

If you only listen to one Madonna album then - of course - listen to Ray of Light.

BTW, I also don't care that much for Like a Rolling Stone having sung it too many times for our covers band!