I'd have to agree that if you have 4x4 and don't use it on the street or only when your already stuck, It almost completely negates the point of having a 4x4 in the first place. The increased wear on components likely isn't even measurable. Right now I am driving with a locked front in 4x4 and it lets me know immediately when there is too much grip on the road. Even the ploughed roads don't upset the locker much. If i tried this in summer I would need a new front axle. Just shows how much easier the tires slide on the road, even when lightly glazed with snow.
If you ask me a rear wheel drive TJ/YJ for example is probably one of the most unsafe winter vehicles you can have, if it wasn't for 4x4. No traction control, short wheel base,(no abs on mine) and rear wheel drive. Having the mentality that 4x4 is a last option, is just.....ridiculous. Even letting off the gas on some of these roads in Rocky view in 2H will send the back wagging around.