>I've torrented a bunch of things I own. Ripping videos especially can be a waste of time.
Sure. But that's like 1% of use cases. Most people download movies they don't own -- to see new stuff without having to buy the DVD or go to the movies. Nobody I know (in several countries) downloads only (or even mainly) movies he owns from torrents.
That's how you get screeners on the most popular torrent lists. I seriously doubt those people own the DVD when it's not even released yet.
So, while you do that, and I sometimes do it (rarely), it's not representative of what is usually done.
1% of movies, maybe, but I bet the majority (or at least a very significant portion) of TV downloads are shows that are broadcast free for anyone to watch/record. Those need subtitles just as much.
No, the download method is very much relevant. People download from torrents files they DON'T own any license for (from DVDs or whatever).
The just casually pile on new movies to watch.
Oh, and they are not previewing the movie to "consider it for purchase" either.