The assumption throughout the article is that the wider seats would appeal to the obese passenger - the fatasses. While that may be true, the problem with three-abreast seating is also at the shoulder-level. Next time you're on a plane, look for a row with three full-size adult males. At least one of them will be leaning forward slightly because there simply isn't room at shoulder-height for three full grown males to sit comfortably. I've seen it in exit rows on full flights where all three are elites and need the legroom. Ideally, seating assignments would place two of these guys on either side of the waif-like heroin-addict-thin girls (who tend to have very narrow shoulders) so that all three could sit comfortably.
I'm not talking about body-builder types; just your ordinary six-foot plus adults. Upgrades for me are a godsend not just because F seats are wider but because there are several inches between the two seats so both occupants can lean back and relax in their seat.
