So you replace a bike helmet with something you wear around your neck instead. That seems less comfortable and more annoying that just wearing a normal helmet. Plus you could get a very comfortable helmet for much less than $600.
I want more people on bikes on the road - makes it safer for me. If they want to ride without helmets, so be it.
(I ride, I wear a helmet, but I'm a dude in lycra, I have no shame)