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@AdamM
The overriding argument for me is that the law requires a bicycle to have two independent brakes on it, so a singlespeed with only a front brake or a brakeless fixeed wheel bike are both illegal on the public highway.
If people wish to ride them on the road then fine, so be it, I can't influence that. However, they do need to realise that if ever in an accident the fact that their bike does not have two brakes could be used by the other party in the accident as a factor in determining contributory negligence (or even fault in extreme circumstances) and reduce any compensation due to them.
Basically, like helmet wearing, it comes down to personal responsibility. Ride what you like but be aware of the potential implications of your choices and take responsibility for them.