Gearing is very subjective and we all have our preferences and specific local riding environments. I agree with the observation that discussions about gearing often turn into a contest of showmanship or who's a "real" bike rider and who isn't, which can be unfortunate. We all should use what works best for our bodies and our riding situations.

Since you asked, I generally do prefer lower gearing, and I love 3x drivetrains. I've tried all of them, but 3x works the best for me. I usually use a 22/32/42 crankset on all terrain or all purpose bikes, and up to a 26/36/48 or similar on a fitness type bike (though I still prefer smaller). It's all about the gearing I want for that specific bike and where I ride it. I gear each bike so the middle ring suits 80% of my riding for that bike. I have the small ring for slower climbs and the large ring for fast descents, but most of my riding is in the middle ring, and I just tune my pedal cadence with the cassette in the back. I usually use a typical 11-28 in 7-speed, or 11-32 for 8-speed, or 11-34 for 9-speed, but I don't really go wider than that -- I just don't need or want the wide ratio in the back. I have the rings up front to change the gearing regimes, so I want the smaller steps in the back.