We digress, but...

People who crave stability should stick with LTS as Wade suggests. That does not
mean that 8.10 is less stable. It depends on your own configuration. What 8.04
gives is less change which over time keeps your system working with less
breakage. I tend to side with Ian that 8.10 is stable enough for most users with
good equipment. But if you have a low tolerance for problems and your system
does what you want then why ask for trouble when you don't have to? Ubuntu 8.04
will be supported after 8.10 is dead and gone.

The advantage of 8.10 over 8.04 is not stability but flexibility. New features
are added, new drivers are added to the later kernel, and some programmes or
desktops have been improved. However, some people do not like change. For
example, some users still prefer KDE 3.5 and you cannot convince them to try KDE
4.2. Some people refuse to use Firefox 3. Others just wait for the kink to be
ironed out before they upgrade.

What Ubuntu does offer in abundance is choice. You run what you like for as long
as you like or you can catch a wave and live on the edge. What is right for Ian
may not be right for me. What is right me is not right for then next person. We
have unique personalities and needs. which is why I do not like to see
generalisations. Ubuntu 8.04 and 8.10 are different entities which are directed
towards a different user base. I am already using 9.04. Life is good in the fast
lane for those who like it and don't mind a few bumps. You are going to love the
speed and particularly ext4. Upgrade when you want or not. That is your choice.
Eventually everyone will be using what is in 9.04, but by then the target will
have moved. Would you want it any other way?