Most of the programs going under I never touched due to having a bad feeling about them for one reason or another. Then again I've been very hesitant (requiring them to have an outstanding reputation or due to them being the only choice within that niche) to sign up with new sponsors not using third party payout systems since early 2008.
In my opinion it says more about bad programs and shady business practices as well as sponsors (the owners of these programs should be on your blacklist, not just the programs. Take the time to find out who these owners are that are screwing you!) lacking in ethics than it does about the affiliate market itself. There will be some who will try to use the climate to screw affiliates even more though, of course...just like always. An affiliate should be extremely cautious about the type of people they rely on these days more so than ever.
