I`ve been folowing the thread with interest.
I guess most postings are from people who don`t fly big jets commercially in busy environments. Otherwise they are just brawling unprofessionally or plain stupid.
The automation on today`s flightdecks is there because it`s SAFE. It reduces workload and thus increases situational awareness.
If you choose not to use it you willingly put your plane at more risk then necessary, and others as well, when you overshoot your level or mis your reclearence.
Do you also regularly cut your number one engine on take off for practice?
If you feel like you need extra training for your checkrides, contact your training department and don`t do it with paying customers in the back.