To me the distinction is simple:

• Tabletop games are social... I prefer them, because gaming is my primary hobby, and I can socialize with friends while doing something I enjoy... the online world is simply not capable of replacing real world interaction at time this time (nor is it likely to in my lifetime). Role playing games are simply one aspect of tabletop gaming... probably the most intellectually creative, but board games and miniatures can be equally rewarding in different ways.
• When I play alone, I play computer games... these days that's primarily WOW, because it is very good (and should be given its development budget) and it is relatively inexpensive compared to every other hobby I have (especially since I don't buy new computer games every month or so anymore).

Scourge? I don't think so... I appreciate my real world friends, because I can probably call upon them should I need help, but I can't say the same for my online acquaintances.

Cheers