I think that is definitely part of it. Another part though is that so many people in today's society feel so entitled and have no sense of personal responsibility. Of course common sense and respect for others went out the window a long time ago. The fact that the pilot is disconnected from the UAV makes it easy for these people to take risks with little perceived risk to themselves. If they were in the cockpit they would have a whole different perspective. Have you noticed that the licensed manned aircraft pilots on these forums are the ones that try to follow the rules and fly responsibly? That is because safety is drilled into pilots from day one of training.
It really is not a big deal. Registration is not a big deal. Obtaining a Part 107 license is almost child's play. Getting LAANC authorization is so simple now. Unlocking DJI zones is an extra step but also not overly burdensome. I feel that those who can't follow those steps, most likely should not be at the controls of a flying vehicle anyway. Many times it is also lack of preparation and planning. We've all seen the posts about "I lost a day's worth of client business because the %$#@*&!@ DJI app wouldn't let me fly". Well if you plan ahead, get all authorizations done, and test everything, then this scenario just doesn't happen.
So this is where the upcoming changes in regulations can be good and bad, depending on how they are finally implemented. If this live connection is indeed implemented and requires a subscription with an official provider, then it kills the hobby. If it is made so that no additional expense and undue burden is put on the pilot, it could make the skies safer and as you said, weed out the riff-raff. As an additional benefit, if the FAA makes it possible to reasonably get clearance to fly beyond VLOS and/or over people, then it makes these UAVs of ours even better. Sure have requirements to ensure safety, have a comprehensive exam (practical exam maybe?), and enforce the regulations. I would be more than happy to jump through the necessary hoops (within reason) to get the ability to fly BVLOS and over people.
Well said. Fully agree!