I understand what you're saying in the first paragraph, but that's not the problem. You cover only a part of it in the second paragraph.

I have no idea how anyone with a new transceiver would learn how to use it, even with the manual. I remember by first HT and reading the manual - I had no clue what those words meant. I talked to many hams about what th' heck tones were and whether I needed SQL or Tone-SQL, what VFO was, and much, much more. Among other issues are what frequencies do you call to get help on? If the non-ham has his radio programmed for local repeaters, I pity the poor real hams who get their controlled nets totally screwed up by some guy who has no clue how to use a radio to get help.

And I'm serious on this last point. Our repeaters in the Bay Area are often tied to the local police and sheriff's departments, and they're used as resource and tactical networks in emergencies. Having some knucklehead interrupt search and rescue or traffic for Red Cross or Salvation Army services would be obstructive and damaging to the community's need for help and ability to provide it. I would not be happy that some jerk bought a radio with the plan of getting his personal help if he ever needed it and who then screwed up coordinated relief efforts with his personal emergency.

I encourage you to get your general. As you know, there's no morse requirement now. My wife and I studied online and took the free online sample tests, and we passed with flying colors. With an HF radio, you can then participate in health and welfare nets from the various hurricane, earthquake, and tsunami disaster sites. It's a very valuable hobby in times of need.