What a load of tosh.
Being the "captain" is about realising that you're in charge, that it's you making the command decisions, and that if you screw up there's nobody holding your hand and ready to take over.
It starts as you agree to accept the aircraft for your first solo.
It's a responsibility thing, not a gold hat thing.
Gertrude
If we accept that it is more of a rank thing then a Captain is someone who is not just responsable for his craft but in charge of people.
Hence surely if he is alone he is not in charge of people and the title is in appropriate?
In that situation he is a pilot or PIC?
Pace