I get what your saying. Your just stuck in a specific train of thought and think it's end all be all.
I just covered various aspects of protection for them. That can cover AoE, Melee, Ranged & Typed dmg that also can be found in them. Doesn't matter how frigging high your ranged defense is. An AoE will still hit, less you have enough proper typed or AoE Defense. Same goes for melee.
While I'm a defensive build promo guy. I also understand all other avenues. Not everyone going remember to fly out up out of melee reach or if AoE hits someone near em and hits them, Especially in enclosed areas. There all things to remember. Not everyone going take Hover. Some folks want SJ or SS or Teleport for Travel.
Gotta factor in all possible options. Not focus on...DO THIS, YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND, BLAH BLAH. I understand far better then most, been at this since Beta Blue till Sunset, Pre-HC, HC Day 1. I forget so many things in my own life, nothing in this game has ever left my memory.