Firstly, I know the definition of real-ale. Also, I used to make my own beer and truly got into many of the techniques advocated by the late Dave Line.
However at the end of the day, there is a a lot of snobbery goes on with beer (like with other things of course).
I enjoy a number of beers that are not real ales, in fact here in the US, there are many excellent beers that aren't.
I prefer a beer that has good flavor, and the body and bitterness are balanced along with the carbonation. It's also nice to know a beer is made from natural ingredients, and not full of artificial colorants for example. I think they do more harm than artificial gas.
The bottom line to me though is the drinking experience of a particular brew.
My favorite brew - that's difficult to say - depends on my mood, what food I'm eating, the weather even. However, if I marooned on a desert island with an endless supply of Fullers ESB on tap, I'd not worry quite so much about a quick rescue.