This is going to sound weird or freak, but I love the fluorescent tubes!!! I don’t know if their cold glows, toxicity by mercury or easy manipulation are the things that call my attention, but I am sure of one thing… I love them!! (Especially the energy saving bulbs and Black lights ^^)
I can’t remember when I got my first fluorescent tube or energy saving bulb (probably when I was doing the light-cover for my aquarium) but I am sure of (another) one thing: I loved going to the store to buy bulbs and  F. tubes (it`s easier than typing the entire word, yes I am lazy :º)

The F. tubes (and similar) are so useful for different types of lighting (and other applications). For example I use energy saving bulbs (preferably with cold glow) to illuminate the plants of my paludarium and terrarium-desk lamp. Besides they are ideal to illuminate environments spending little energy (and reducing the feeling of guilt for not being ecological). And although you do not believe me the F. tubes can be used to attract bugs (you can interpret it as you wish, whether it is pest control or to capture study material).
I can`t imagine a world without it (yes, I can, but I`m referring to a modern world), A world without their insomnia provoking lights, cold glows and effects of different illumination (like the black light). Without the F. tubes life would made of warms colors that hurt the sigth and there would be more drowsiness (I don`t like it).