I have a right to determine what is displayed on my own devices.
If an entire class of people were drawn to something else, such as watching Nebula or going to coffee shops, both would be more interesting than they are now.
Personally, I agree with the 'my device, my rules' comment. If YouTube want to (try to) block me, they can go ahead. They're under no obligation to serve me video content even if I didn't block ads, so it makes little difference.
But yes, it is their right to try. Just as it is my right to install & use an adblocker.
Why would any regular person empathize with the criminals in the commission of their crimes?