I don't have a problem with Apple. I even do all my computing (5 different OSs, Windows 7, OS X 10.5.6, OS X 10.4.11, Solaris (including the OpenSolaris variant), Ubuntu 9.04 alpha 6, all sorted between multibooting and virtual machines) on a first-gen MacBook Pro that I got used for $500. I do CAD work, Java programming in Eclipse, gaming in Windows and under CrossOver (a Wine variant that supports hardware-accelerated DirectX), VB6 and VB Express 2008, Photoshop and GIMP work. I use 5 different browsers: Chrome, Safari 4, Firefox, IE8, and Opera. This is just by way of saying that I don't think that anyone can call me an Apple fanboy and keep a straight face.
Does Apple charge a price premium? Yes. Is it worth it? I certainly think so. Why?
Because Apple takes care of you. You have a problem, they fix it. I've had two reasons to make calls to Apple support. The first, they shipped a replacement part right away. I had it within two days, and it was easy to install. The second time, they had me come in to an Apple store to replicate the problem for them. They saw, and immediately ordered me a new logic board, at no cost to me.
I've never had that kind of service before from anyone, not even Lenovo, who are legendary for their amazing support.
Oh, and regarding the RAM prices: $1000 is 4 times $250, not 5 times. It's that much more for two main reasons. First, the modules themselves are laptop SO-DIMMs. Not only is DDR3 not as widely available in laptop size, but the small size of laptop modules make it more expensive to get a certain amount of storage per module. Second, 4GB modules of any type of RAM- even DDR2 desktop RAM- are exorbitantly expensive. Laptop modules ratchet up the price even more. Add DDR3, and that's only a greater premium. So, it's not just senseless markup.
If liking to use OS X for normal use makes me an Apple lover, then by all means, consider me guilty. But first, read this comment, and think it through. Apple isn't a Sony, charging extra for no additional benefits over comparable products. Apple adds value, not only in the quality of design and construction of their products, but also in post-purchase support.