> Collecting data might be sensible, but it isn't too hard to ask.

Collecting data might be sensible ... for corporations. But, it is rarely for the consumer. That is why it is so hard to ask.

"Can I do this thing that you do not understand but probably have the feeling that is only going to be bad for you?". That is a hard question to ask, that is why the question is hidden behind weird concepts, lists of consent checkbox, or other dark-pattern mechanisms.

Collecting data might be sensible.. but only for one side of the deal. Data collection is a clear WIN-LOSE situation, a situation that is only accepted because there is an unsymmetrical amount of power in the relationship.