I am surprised at the "black and white" philosophy exhibited by some posters.

it is generally easy enough to see if some one is requesting out of "entitlement" or because the airline scr*w*d them over. If it is the former, not a chance..the latter, I will consider a switch.

At one point in time my sister regularly traveled with 3 kids under 10 across country at peak holiday. Because of the $$$ involved, she always booked months ahead. Not once did she get to keep the seats she had originally selected, and she had no choice but to ask others to switch. It was a PITA for everyone, and I was quite surprised to hear comments some people made to her...when in actuality, she had appropriately planned.

On the other hand, I am always amazed when 2 middle aged adult request seat changes and want to uproot everyone in sight to sit together on a relatively short flight. I will often do it - but really? I could care the least whether I am sitting next to Mr. Sophie!