Yeah, everyone who likes Steam is a sheep. Very mature.
And in case you didn't know this, Steam offers a way for you to back up your game. There's your hard copy right there. As I have stated before, I was able to play the game without being connected to the internet. I don't know if this was just some quirk in my situation alone, but I am sure others have had a similar experience. Not everyone for sure, but others have been able to play it like me.
As for delivering the game? It's sure a hell of alot more convenient for me to download the game via Steam than travel to the retailer, maybe get it or maybe not. I downloaded the game for cheaper than what it would have cost me in the stores, plus I got more for the money I paid. I believe in security as much as the next guy, and take it quite seriously. But until it is shown that Valve is doing nasty things via Steam, try relaxing a bit, eh?
Is Steam perfect? Hell no it's not. But that doesn't make it useless nor does it mean other companies won't try picking up on this idea and improving on it. If you don't have fun with Steam and/or half-Life 2, then cool. Don't use them. But calling everyone else who does use it and enjoy it a sheep is the height of conceit. Repeat to yourself: it's just a game.