Historically, buying bitcoins has been more profitable than mining.
Yeah, there are better ways to earn bitcoins, just as there are better ways to save US $ than clipping coupons. Start a business. We need more economy, not more miners.
Yeah... I agree with you. Mining wouldn't be a way to make substantial money. I'm not necessarily looking for a substantial pay out, just a way to participate and support my computer habit a little.
However, my wife would argue on the coupon point. She does the whole extreme couponing thing and hardly spends any money. Her saving are usually 90% or greater. I've sen her spend $8 on a trip that totaled over $200 and I've also seen her make money on trips. Craziness.