Quite agree, arguments on both sides. There have been a number of times during the past five years when I have been asked whether I can accept an IFR clearance and have always said no given my rating limitations.
I must admit however, to having learnt something from this thread. I cannot recall – with any degree of accuracy - the last time I stated VFR in my initial contact or flight information request with a new station. Like anything else, I suppose, complacency creeps in….