Why would anyone put their mics away after use? How about dust and smoke and moisture? How about so they don't get knocked over by the cat? How about if they are using a room in their house that is not a dedicated studio-only space? Like if they are: "living with someone" as the OP is. How about needing to break down the drum mics when it's time to record guitar? Maybe they can't afford to buy a set of mics to exclusively leave up on the drums full time? I don't know how everybody works.

But neither do you.

OP called a home studio a "means to a goal". To me, that says he has a goal and whatever that goal is, it is not "learning how to use the recording equipment". Everyone is a 'hobbyist' until they are bringing in more money from their recording projects than they are spending on setting up and maintaining their studio. In any case, the OP was a bit vague . Which means that both replies that assume he is OK with remaining a hobbyist and replies that assume a certain level of ambition on his part are equally on-topic.

OP said this:
What is so threatening about someone considering just focusing on writing, performing and creating? Does the self-recording paradigm really need your "defense"? Isn't it already the default around here?

You know, for a guy who just said: you sure are quick to come up with a rationale against every possible situation where anyone might consider it. I did not suggest that you go to professional studio. But I will continue to suggest it to those who who are clearly dissatisfied with how self-recording is turning out for them.

As I look around GS, I see more than a few people bitching. A lot of people feel as if they have been sold a bill of goods about how 'easy' and 'cheap' it was going to be. There are a lot more "means to an end" people than you seem willing to acknowledge.

I hear them complaining, even if you do not.