Saving the user from himself

My first thought whenever I hear about the idea of user-based architecture is the safety of the public good. Maybe I'm simply too practically minded, but I can't help but think of all the harm that an individual could cause themselves by trying to create their own environment. After all, isn't the role of the architect to promote the public good and provide life-safety for occupants?
With this in mind, I still find the idea of user-based architecture fascinating. As an architect I think it is important not to forget the user, but rather integrate the user in a effective and safe manner. Doing this will no doubt take careful planning and strategic design initiatives but I think it can be achieved.