Jeff I must disagree with you.
I see no reason to even have root access for the normal uninformed user. Why?
Mac's before X gave root access to all users. How do you keep people from deleting important stuff. Simple, tell them to stay out of the "System Folder." Worked for me. I tell all my clients to leave the System Folder alone. They can use the Control Panels accessed through the Apple Menu, but stay out of the System folder unless I direct them to over the phone.
By keeping sensitive files invisible or in one place, the System Folder, keeps naive users away. Simple, clear, direct.
What Panther Should Fix: Part Four, Duplicate Directories