Flawed logic. You have the "right" to recline since that feature is built into the seat you are paying for. You don't have the "right" to play annoying music because that is socially unacceptable and not built into the cost.
Social acceptability is defined by society. Why is reclining acceptable?
I have never seen this happen on short of long haul flights. Unless is it night time the vast majority of people tend to have their seats upright. From what I've seen the reason is simple - in flight entertainment in on the back of the seat and most people want to watch a movie.
Further, just because you have a right to do something doesn't mean you should exercise that right.
The fact the conversation is happening means this isn't exactly an open and shut case on social acceptability on reclining.
Flawed logic. You've paid to be moved from A to B. Incidental furniture is a bonus: you merely might have the ability to recline the seat.