ORIGINAL: roltech
But like some one else mentioned you don't have to get an instructor or join a club. we all would like to really see all RC's to join a club and get an instructor, but so far it's not the law here anyways. and to push the issue to anyone who are not, is IMOP it's not right, the only reason we would like to see all to join, is to protect us, from bad rep, and safety, of others.
Self protection is far from the only reason many of us strongly recommend club membership and instruction. We also do it because we know that the odds of success are much higher and that someone with a positive learning experience, rather than many cycles of crash/repair, is much more likely to stay with the hobby.
As far as the assertion that we shouldn't be "pushing the issue", this is a beginner's forum. People come here for advice. Many of us will do what we can to make sure people know ALL OF THE FACTS, rather than just responding "go for it" when someone comes here saying they are thinking of going it on their own. It's fairly common for someone to consider trying on their own because a) they think instruction will be expensive, b) they think flying is easier than it really is or c) they think there are no nearby clubs. Having a frank discussion about these issues helps the potential student learn their options. If at the end of the discussion, they still decide to go it on their own, so be it, at least it's an informed decision.