Well, not for MR per se, but for mileage awards in business or first... it all makes sense (at least for me ) to fly as many quality carriers in longest possible routing! Of course, whether or not the agent 'grants' the desired routing is completely at the agent's interpretation of the rules, luck, etc. Nonetheless, my approach when agents ask 'but sir, there is a shorter connection, more direct routing, etc..." I just say "well, I love flying..." But then again, there are days when I just want to get home quickly (never if I get to visit Lufthansa F terminal )!