Michael,
Muting is important in voicing the guitar, a quality instrument when muted will still sound better than an inexpensive muted instrument. Don's list of pickers likely mute for technique. To me, muting is like hammering on or pulling off, it comes in time and offers a nice effect without plugging in.
Rick's opinion gets my vote (Rick ? right?)Without wiggling to many worms in the can of worms,Your style of play is a matter of taste and if it does'nt include muting, it works for you and thats what is important.
Mudjack