A SPOT device on which you just push the "okay" button every so often I do not see as having a big effect on the quality of "alone in the wilderness" experience.  I use one and find everyone at home really likes being able to see where I am and my progress, etc.
I would not however want to carry a sat-phone or any other device I could talk to the outside world on; or worse the outside world might use to contact me.  That I would feel is cheating on the wilderness experience.