but it's not as "natural" as you want us to believe.

I never suggested it was natural. Just countered your argument by saying that both are equally unnatural.

Again it's only an example. ... not meant as a use case

An example that's not a use case is an interesting concept.

I claim that you primarily want to win a debate.

Nope. I seriously wanted to understand why you would even be considering using autobox in production code.

I've got fairly well enchrenched views on programming langauges & paradigms, but every now and then I see someone who's opinions I value, suggest things that are contrary to my views, and I seek further information. And, potentially, reform my positions accordingly.

I've reached my conclusions now, and no longer seek that understanding. I only re-joined this thread because I noticed your update explicitly addressed to me.

explain you the benefits of OOP

I don't need them explaining. But I do think they are way oversold.

OO is just one of several programming paradigms, each of which has its place and its drawbacks. I like Perl because it allows me to choose the appropriate paradigm for the problem at hand, and mix them transparently.

My confusion and disquiet arises when I see people moving towards the One True (whichever) Paradigm, to the exclusion of all others.