I ask this as a new-car shopper who is curious at the lack of
availability of manual transmissions:

Why is there a seemingly overwhelming preference for automatic
transmissions? Is it that people don't want to be bothered with
manuals, don't want to learn how to drive them, or for some other
reason? I personally think manuals are more fun and offer more control
of the vehicle, but that's just one man's opinion.

I don't mean this question to be condescending in any way--I'm just
genuinely curious.

Thanks in advance for your responses.