I think people are taking the "6ft" guidance too literally. It could be more than 6ft or less. If there is a wall separating you, I can almost guarantee it is less.
Ironically, On my flight this morning, I was in 2A. Just after wheels up, the FA actually moved to 1A to take a photo out the window then went back.

At least I know the reason for the rule now.


As for these news articles about "shocked" passengers being under the impression that they have lied to, it almost seems like a self-fulfilling prophecy. They write an article reporting UA's policy about blocking advanced seat assignments for middle seats incorrectly reporting it as a guarantee of an empty seat and reduced capacity, then generate another article when a passenger gets upset about misinterpreting the policy based on reading the prior news article.
Plus, if you are really that worried, you can always get off the plane and take another flight. Clearly the importance of the travel outweighed to perceived risk.