Well, depends on - I had no choice at that time, my first cat was brought to me when I lived in Cologne and she needed help - and I've really had cats who refused to go outside, depending on where I lived.
Right now I live in a little town and have a garden of my own, but Kessy wants her litter box instead of the garden.
I can only tell you my XP, I've moved very often, my cats could go outside in some cases and not in other. I didn't have the impression it harmed them, because our bonds were very strong and I took care to keep them occupied so they didn't feel bored - meaning: they prefered the human bond to their area. But I understand your point:that's why my parents refused to have a dog when we came to Germany and had a flat at first - they had the same opinion as you <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
Kiya