First part ... perhaps they just want to share their thoughts or experience ... get it out in the open ...
As for your second part, I agree, play as you will .... I have always enjoyed enteracting with others in multiplayer environments ... but usually in a team work type environment. But in such as ED it almost dictates a sort of individual syrinity in plowing space with little (not without any) interaction. It's always good to gather with like minded players and share goals.
And roll play is essential for a healthy multiplayer environment. But the debate will continue on WHAT is roll play and WHAT is not.
But yes, by all means, play as you will.
Chief