This can be such a hard subject and I know that every child is different. People who did this and had problems when the child was older definately have their reasons for being against it. However, I personally agree with some of the later suggestions that he will grow out of it on his own. My 16 month old son was always rocked to sleep, despite EVERYONE telling me that I shouldn't do it. Around 11 months, I noticed that he was having trouble actually falling asleep on me, so I would rock him for 10 minutes or so, lay him down and he would fall asleep on his own. I think the bigger in size they get, the lass comfortable it becomes. I still follow the same routine. We get his water, read a few books, shut off the light and rock and talk for a few minutes and I put him in his crib. We still have his mobile up and the aquarium toy in there. He either goes right to sleep or he gets up and turns those things on. He likes having the noise to fall asleep to. So in my experience, he weaned himself. I personally wouldn't worry about it yet and enjoy it! My son has been sleeping for 11-12 at night since he was 6 months old, so it couldn't be that bad! When he is very tired he will fall asleep on us and I just don't worry about it. In 6 months or so, if you are worried that it is having a negative impact on his sleep, rock him until he is just about asleep and put him down. I hate crying it out as well, but if they are really tired, it won't last long. I still will not let my son get into a full cry alone in a dark room, I think that is wrong. your child will let you know what they need and what they want and I am sure you will work it out. having those soothing toys in his crib has definately been a must for us.
I think that the biggest positive there is for doing this is that it creates a positive association with sleep. I tell my son it is time to read a book and go to bed, and he runs into his room. What child would like sleep or their crib if they are left there to cry?? What could be better then falling asleep in mommy's arms? I know what all the books say and believe me, I really stressed about this after reading all of them. You decide what is best for your own situation, don't be pressured.