At this point, 29 states have laws that require electors to vote for the candidate who won the popular vote in their states.  That requirement was not envisioned by the founders and would seem to undermine their intention.  As you say, it's an 'end around.'  Still, there are 21 states whose electors, theoretically at least, can vote their conscience, the popular vote notwithstanding. Here's a summary:
http://archive.fairvote.org/?page=967