some very experienced people here seem to agree with me.
And there are others of equal experience who posted otherwise.
Ever thought you might be part of the problem?
No.
Flight Safety is easily discounted or dismissed if you have a cavalier attitude to rules and regs because you think you are much better than the other guys and girls. Personal freedoms don't trump safety in aviation.
Agreed. That's why I fly within the letter of the law (US law) and have set conservative minimums based on my level of experience, training, currency, and the capability of the equipment I have access to.