I think direct flights are fine but only in one circumstances: that barring a mechanical problem, the aircraft operating all segments remains the same. There is something to be said for remaining on board the same aircraft as it enters and exits the hub airport. It certainly can be more convenient for the traveler. But direct flights with equipment changes are totally unacceptable. If it's not a same-plane flight, it shouldn't bear the misleading label direct; instead it should be designated as a connecting flight.