I believe I have seen that particular stropping method described before, something with Fire in it or something? It strikes me as a possible burnishing effect perhaps.

I believe you're quite correct that one or two paper cuts won't damage the edge too bad. Stropping afterwards probably negates most of it, so as is often said for differing preferences or methods, YMMV. I don't have a problem with your method if it works for you. It seems as though you have your system down in a way that works well for you. I think other folks just took exception to the fact that you originally recommended it to a newb without highlighting that it might give him trouble without more experience.