Originally posted by RockvilleBob Is this an area I should be concerned about if I only shoot RAW?
The Image Finishing Touch settings have no influence on the RAW file.
The only way they are still relevant is regarding the preview you'll get on the back LCD. If your settings are too contrasty, for instance, the camera will give you an over exposure warning even though the RAW data is far from over exposed.
I would recommend to experiment a little with the settings so that you get a preview that is not too conservative with respect to warnings (highlights & shadows) but also isn't too flat. It should also give you a good indication whether the exposure is about right.