So I've only been alive long enough to remember 5 presidential elections in detail. 2/5 the electoral college has disagreed with the popular vote. Previously it

So I've only been alive long enough to remember 5 presidential elections in detail. 2/5 the electoral college has disagreed with the popular vote. Previously it resulted (after court decision) in the election of Bush, widely seen as one of the worst presidents ever. Second time is Trump, who is at best unqualified. Why is this system still in use? What are the benefits of the electoral college? Other than disagreeing with the popular vote at times, doesn't it also discourage voting since a vote in california is worthless next to one from florida?