The way I see it, all level of settings have a mix of both, (with the exception of low and disabled) and the standard settings is really a setting right in the middle where it would hurt less. Those who want more objects rendered with soft shadows can use high to ultra as is, those who dont, and want to use stencil shadows can use low as is or disabled, and then for people who dislike the crappy shadow artifacts on buildings and walls, but also the crappy stencil shadows on foilage, and want a fair option of balance to eliminate both distractions can opt for standard.