No I'm not, you're wrong. The history of it is solid and not wrong. This is an unneccessary risk for Dubya. But it seems we're all smarter than our fathers and grandfathers nowadays.
If the Pres. does not debate, he will appear to be weak. His image is that of a strong leader. Strong leaders are not afraid to state their positions. Strong leaders are open to questions about their plans, so that they may better explain them and how their plans will affect the American people.
The 'history' of debates is mute in this situation. We are in the age of the 24 hour TV news cycle. No such thing existed in your granfather's or father's time.