Except it's not, is it? What do you do when an application you want to use doesn't appear in there? Oh you just add the repository you noob!
In a single post you managed to pretty much prove my point about Linux nerds not accepting that making things easier can be done without losing this "control" they so love.
Also you've completely missed the point - my post wasn't just about installing apps, it's that the Linux community in general seems to think that having to use a command prompt to configure a desktop OS is acceptable in 2009, and anyone who disagrees is just not good enough to be allowed to use their beloved distro.
You don't have to add a repo to install programs outside the standard repos. I believe in ubuntu the GUI (yes GUI, no CLI involved) to install .deb files is Gdebi, this is installed by default. Download the .deb you want from where ever it is, couple of clicks and you're done. It works in precisely the same way as a .exe. The disadvantage of doing it this way is that if the software is updated you don't get it, hence why linux users prefer to add repos.
Furthermore, if you wish to add a repo it can be done entirely through synaptic, no CLI involved. The thing is that when you're giving instructions over the net it is far quicker to say type this 'sudo gedit /etc/apt/sources.lst' and add this 'bla' than click here here then here, open this do that etc.
I am honestly struggling to think of any situation where the CLI is the only way of doing something. As a self confessed nerd for many things I prefer the CLI because with a bit of knowledge it's better for my needs. However, that doesn't mean I have a problem with people using GUIs for absolutely everything (regardless of platform), they can do whatever they want on their computer. I think the majority of 'power' linux users (and by that I mean those using distros like arch, gentoo, slackware etc) really couldn't care less, as long as we're still allowed to use the CLI it's not a problem.