Before this year I have never owned a flasher (I bought a Garmin Striker 4 from a buddy). I have watched other guys use them, and toyed around a little with them myself. I learned to fish without electronics. However, lots of times you end up fishing blind, have no idea if (or how) the fish are reacting, etc. I have caught fish without the fancy toys. For me, having the flasher helps to know where the fish are, and if they're chasing. Electronics can't make them bite, or set the hook for you though. For me, all the flasher does is keep the interest in the chase. I know there are fish there, and I know they're looking, now I just have to figure out how to make them bite. Yes, it helps, but honestly, if they're gonna bite, they're gonna bite, electronics don't change that part. They can be just as frustrating though if you know they are there, and they don't want what your dangling!
It's all personal opinion, I'm good with whatever side of the fence you're on, as both sides have valid points.