In the real world when you have an IFR departure out of a major airport it doesn't matter if it's VMC or IMC because you have to fly the instruments. It may be a bright sunny day but you still have to look down and follow those needles.
I don't think I did get the wrong end of the stick. And it is a very common misconception. It doesn't matter if you are flying a SID or an approach procedure in Class A or any other airspace you still need to look out the window. And just because the airspace is controlled doesn't completely protect you from all hazards.
Again if you read the airprox reports a 737 nearly hit a radio controlled model at 1500ft under vectors in Class D.
I have seen models as well operating on the final approach path of Southampton at 0.5 miles finals. Caused Mayhem.
And when the report on the Cov accident comes out it will make interesting reading as well about IFR training under the hood.