Why do they do ask passengers to restore seats to their upright position on takeoff and landing?

Question

I can understand why they'd want their tray tables up, by why the seats?

Answer 1

So if the pilot has to abort the take-off, or makes a hard sudden stop landing, then the back of your chair doesn't merge with the face of the guy behind you.

Answer 2

So that the person behind you can reach their lifejacket from under their seat if need be.

Answer 3

Because most accidents happen during take offs and landings.  When your seat is reclined, the person behind you is hindered from getting out of his seat quickly and easily in case the plane needs to be evacuated.

Answer 4

So if the plane crashes you can bend over and kiss your self good bye...

Answer 5

There are 2 reasons for this.  The first is the fore mentioned blockage of the escape path for the person behind you.  The other is that in a sudden stop, with your body in more of a reclined position, you can slide forward in your seat and trap yourself under your seatbelt- which no one wears tight like they should, or can injure your internal organs.

So just listen to your crew.