Maybe some people want to choose the manner in which they mitigate damage to the environment. In today's world, it really is all about balancing. For some people, having a large car is important. Others don't need a large car but feel the need to use aesthetically pleasing light. I don't think most people are all-or-nothing, like you seem to think.

Also, it's not that "no one" will bring CFLs to special recycling facilities. It's that some won't. Especially people who haven't chosen to use these difficult-to-dispose of bulbs.

Another point: if something needs to be thrown away less often, it's more of a pain to dispose of it properly. It's one thing to be in a habit of recycling. It's another thing to remember where I put that dang CFL that burnt out three months ago because I'm making a trip to Ikea. Again, those who choose CFLs are probably willing to deal with this. But someone who goes to the store one day to discover all the regular light bulbs are gone--perhaps this person is less likely to spend the extra time and effort, especially if there isn't more widespead education on the issue.

In case you're wondering where I come out on all of this, we're switching over to CFLs in lights that are on frequently. Haven't had one burn out yet. But, I don't appreciate Congress telling me that I can't have the warm glow of incandescents in my dining room. And I don't appreciate your lumping me into a class of people who don't care because I may prefer to keep a few incandescent bulbs.