[RRFC] Stop removing or give option not to remove `dependencies`

Motivation ("The Why")

Hi,

I like to preserve dependencies (and devDependencies, etc.) even when it is empty in package.json. I can search through a large file to find the dependencies (without getting a thunk noise from my IDE that it doesn't exist), and it just makes clear at a glance to those browsing the status (e.g., of having no dependencies).

Example

As others have pointed out, not removing dependencies would help avoid diff noise.

How

Current Behaviour

The property currently gets removed upon performing npm install or npm uninstall.

Desired Behaviour

Please don't remove dependencies or other dependency fields when performing npm install or npm uninstall, etc., even if they are left empty. Or, at the very least, please consider configuration to disable this behavior.

Thanks!

References

• n/a

Start by reviewing the issue's examples and the referenced npm feedback discussion. Examine how npm install and npm uninstall currently handle dependency fields in package.json, then determine the intended behavior or configuration boundary. Done means an agreed proposal covering empty dependencies, devDependencies, and related fields.