I had my ARV's mounted back 4 cm back for about 2 years, and this year I switched em upp, and I really liked the feel of a true center. I had the power and control over the ski, and hititng rails were so much easier.
I am sure when skiing was invented that was the first though to have the bindings center mounted, but people realised they couldn't utilize those logs under there feet.
The whole evolution is quite intriguing if you ask me.