I think the fact we have both options has helped this hobby.
I do think electric is the way to go for your first hobby grade rc car. Nitro can be a bit frustrating if a newbie does not follow the breakin, cleaning and storage rules. Electric can be a small problem if they don't treat their battery properly but not as much as a nitro that won't fire.
No new comer should enter the hobby by buying the fastest thing on the shelf, whether is be nitro or electric. If a nikko kitchen runner is their first and they jump to one of the electric speed demons or a nitro sedan or buggy they will have a steep learning curve and may leave the hobby.
Short sighted hobby shops may go for the quick cha ching but if they sell the newbie an entry level car and keep selling them more progressive cars they will make more money in the long run.
my 2 cents