For some, the blackness of space is their calling, so they leave the bubble in search of riches and new vista's. For those new to the game, griefers and gankers ruin their first experience and scare them off to Solo or Private Groups. For others, playing Solo by themselves, they can experience the game without human interruption. Others like the far outback of Colonia and make their home there. There will always be some who play in open who are welcoming to new players, but are busy with their own goals of trading to stop and mentor a new player. For me, I have been playing now for almost five years and have met many new and friendly players in Open, but for tasks like profit, I play in a Private Group. I don't engage in Combat at all because I don't agree with killing for profit or sport, even in a game. If I'm out in the black, far from the bubble, I play open because those I meet are not interested in combat, ganking or griefing, but are fellow explorers out to see the sights. I play in Private Groups for group goals, like Canonn, who's primary goal is dicovering the source of the Thagroid's and peaceful interactions and communications. It's your choice how you play and it's unfortunate Open gets a bad rap here from those who have had a bad experience from other players who are set on ruining another players experience, and for that reason, drives them out of this mode.
The next update will focus on the New User Experience and you might have a better experience with the game once it is released. I know many will now criticize a-lot of what I have said, but it is important that you find your own style of play and try not to be disheartened by those who might ruin your gamplay with their own twisted agenda.
o7 and keep a positive attitude while you learn the game.