Regarding seldom-watched programs, the system is designed to meet the tastes of everyone.  I may not like watching "Dog the Bounty Hunter" or "Big Brother" or "The Apprentice", but thousands of others do.  Many of the unwatchable channels (e.g., TV Ontario, and CPAC) are there becasue the CRTC forces the cable companies to carry them, not because they want to.  But that's OK; you don't have to watch them.  Again, it's a matter of personal taste.  You don't go to Loblaws and complain that they carry brussel sprouts because you don't eat them.  There is a market of all of these programs, just as there is a market for brussel sprouts. 
On another note, I question how you blame the cable companies for the service in the cut-rate hotels in which you stay.  That's the Hotelier's choice.