sometimes it's not an option to get a 4x4 (financial restrictions at the time of vehicle purchase) so they fix up their 4x2 to improve it's offroad performance.
yes, a 4x4 to start off with is ideal but it seems the assumption here is that 2wd's are only lifted for looks.
i personally know of a few 4x2's that're lifted, and yes they wheel often. can they handle everything a 4x4 can? no but they're pushing their limits in their own way.