You are right that the important part is the social interaction because it makes shopping humane.  I agree with you on everything except the last part about everyone living in big cities.  I don´t see how that would be feasible, or necessary because nowadays even the most sophisticated product can be sent anywhere.  It is only that we, city people, are used to instant gratification, but anyone can learn to plan ahead and wait.

Our knowledge has surpassed our wisdom. -Charu Saxena.