It's has its place - especially when it's repeated constantly - essentially, a loop, but I think it's unfair in a way to say it's cheating because I don't think anybody expects 16 bars of two chords running arps. When performing, that I'm sure would get tiiring, but the arrangement of said composition comes into play, too.
On the other hand - along with the loop, if you are in the composition phase and get stuck or have an idea for an arp, but unsure how to execute it, use an arp patch/synth. You can then go off that idea tweaking it, but actually taking the time to write it out even if you keep some of the same patterns from the arp patch.
As others have said, the problem lies in using tools as crutches (ie: AT); however, it's more so about not finding different ways to use the tools given? It's not what, it's how! This is true with musicians/performers as everyone may use the same instrument, but every pair of hands that touch it, use it differently! Again, focus on HOW - not what!
This goes for any and everything regarding creativity - whether it's music, movies, tv, books, art! It's ALL art!