I think it is clear, average cyclist cadence up a hill is lower than on the flat.
Recent posts that is due to gears is not the reason IMO.
I think when folks have lower gears, they will still choose a lower cadence up a hill.
I think given the choice the average rider would raise the seat up a hill too - and pedal a lower cadence.
So my question is - who thinks it should be the same - and why?
I'd point out that maybe flat cadence is encouraged to be higher than needed for max efficiency.