By philosophies, I disagree with you.
Verizon does have unfair practice - they REQUIRED me to have voice plan to use tethering because they said tethering isn't offered in data/text only - that's specialized for deaf people. The tethering is included by default in all voice/data/text in combined. I fought with Verizon really HARD and they have check system that must passed - take voice plan out will automatically fail the test. Only ONE PLAN that Verizon has 2 GB data/text will pass without voice since all other plans are not. The managers told me that they have no power to override to take voice plan out, so the system is controlled by IT that followed rules set by executives. I don't have unlimited data - I have 2 GB data, when I go over 2 GB so I will have overage - more fair, more money for Verizon like everyone use it.
The voice plan is completely pointless for me because I can't use oral language at all, even can't talk. Verizon is only one service that works with me, so no competitors work for area that where I live in.
Verizon no longer to block the tethering anymore and they didn't update the old plan to include tethering by default. Using tethering is just "don't tell, don't ask" and they aren't going looking for us, except for customers with unlimited data that don't subscribe to tethering. One representative told me that I have look around to bypass the voice plan, but she isn't going help due to unethical practice in business. I don't blame on managers nor representatives - the problem is with high level.
I use jailbreaking for tethering and use apps that don't approved by Apple. Jailbreaking the iOS make feel like more computer that allow me to customize any stuffs that I like - feel like Linux.
I paid iPhone and I paid the service by monthly, since iPhone 5 is personal matter. If you no longer to use service before end of 2 years so what happen - they have early termination fee.
See Android - the rooting is very popular and common, so Google is very open with applications on market.
Rooting and jailbreaking will void the warranty - no doubt. I chose to take a risk and there is option to un-jailbreak by restore to original firmware - not big issue.