I have no problem with people using technology in the wilderness. The problem is dependence on technology many do not know how to use properly and not having basic skills. The example I posted earlier about finding a position on a map, many could not find their position with the GPS units.
You can go into the wilderness with no skills, little of this and that and at the end of the day you are home sipping a beer rehydrating. The problem is when things go wrong...and no one can guarantee something will not go wrong. If you do not have the basics you can be royally screwed. See the deaths on the Sky High Trail this year and Michelle Yu's on Mt. Baldy...neither had the right gear for conditions.
I tell people what I have seen and the stupid things I have done. I also offer advice based on it. It is up to those asking whether they use it or not. During the winter when I see the ill-prepared going higher when I am descending, I tell them the conditions ahead and keep on moving, I have seen one accident too many in the mountains. It is up to them to use this information.
The problem is when people go forward arm with information but do not have the sense they were born with. This creates problems that put others at risk. I do believe that each rescue should be assessed and if negligence is found those causing the SAR call out should be responsible for the cost of their rescue.
