West Texan:
Yes, base weight is what they talk about in those very light pack weights. Also, as others pointed out, those very light weights are for summer. Around here you need to carry at least 3 pounds of extra warm clothing to be safe and/or survive an unexpected night out if day hiking. If overnighting in winter we expect freezing conditions and you need at least a sleeping bag that is rated around 15 deg. F. (not that I am a believer in sleeping bag ratings, but you get the point, i think.)
So...the conclusion is that you take what you need and only what you need. And..every situation is different and tastes (comfort levels, etc) vary from person to person.
That may not help, but you now have one more opinion at least.
My winter pack weighs 30 pounds with water and fuel and 2 pounds of food.
Jim