To chime in on the virtual desktop debate: I was a heavy virtual desktop user on linux for 8 years. I usually had between 10 and 15 workspaces. My only real criteria for using a window manager was how well I liked it's virtual desktop management style. On those rare times where I had to use Windows, I would get out the old copy of Amish Desktop for Windows 3.0 (that's right) and get my precious, precious workspaces back.

But after spending a few days using the Dock, I stopped craving workspaces at all. Since then, I've preferred the dock over the virtual desktop.

I'm not preaching here, different styles work for different work habits and I've found life with the dock pretty enjoyable.