While I see the OP's point, i believe it is too much of a generalization not applicable to all cases. Stop order is a very important feature and trading and has saved me a couple of times already. The thing is you really need to learn how to use and know when and at what price to place stop orders. Generally if you are a newbie doing guesswork with trading, stay away from stop orders.
This. Its there for a purpose, and many traders can attest to its effectiveness. I will never leave a position open without setting a stop order, especially when I cannot monitor price movements.