Along the same line, uninstalling an app in iOS is a very clean operation since it clears both the app and all the data associated with that app.
You consider this a benefit!? I, generally, want to be able to remove an app and KEEP my data. This is a real nuisance to me.
By putting data completely under the control of a particular app, the OS is much better protected from the effects of viruses and malware.
Sounds plausible to me and, indeed, a benefit if true.
.I'm not sure what the aversion to iTunes might be but it's no different than using any other app to manage files.
Given that one must use an app to manage files, I, too, fail to see why there appears to be such widespread aversion to iTunes. It has worked well for me, given the file management limitations of the iPad.
On the other hand, those with more than one computer run into a real limit to iTunes if they value swapping data among the iPad and those multiple computers. As far as I can tell, one can only register the iPad to a single computer through iTunes.
The bottom line is that an iOS user does trade ease of management for customizability and the ability to interface easily with a PC at the level of a common file system.
If by "PC" you mean windows AND OSX machines, I agree that this seems to me the trade one must make to join the iPad club.
Beginning to think I should stay far away from iAnything.
If the ability to move files back and forth through windows explorer or OSX finder is non-negotiable, then you should stay away from iOS devices. If you can be flexible and work around these limits, I suspect you will find things to like about the iPad.
By the way, in addition to iTunes, I use dropbox and fileapp pro. Fileapp pro allows the creation of folders and the transfer of data between computer and iPad. One thing that has struck me about the iPad is that the apps generally do what they say, and look good doing so. I suppose they would not be allowed in the app store if this were not the case. Search the app store for a file manager that performs a function you value for a price you are willing to pay, and proceed with confidence.