I kinda agree with the OP to a certain extent. One of the problems I see is that I could have found a good trade route, or a nice mining area and things can change without it being clear why. Players not in the open group become part of the background simulation and so it becomes impossible to team up with them or challenge them if I want to claim a resource or a route. Sadly, the mechanics are part of the game design whether we like it or not. Some people think its great others not. Away from certain areas its rare to see players and people not being visible even if they are there takes something away from the dynamic imo.
That's exactly the same as every other instance you aren't in.