G'day Stallie
,
A slight correction to what you said (for UK rules): In the UK a non-instrument rated pilot may fly IFR in Class G airspace eg many parts of Scotland. No requirement in the UK for the pilot to be instrument rated. S/he must still observe their non-IFR licence's limitation to maintain VMC however.
Also you can be IFR in IMC (if appropriately rated ie hold an IMC or IR rating(s)) in Class G and talk to no-one. Imagine that one in the Oz airspace debate!
Your absolutely right - reading from your comments - in your perception about people confusing the meaning of 'IFR' with 'IMC'.