to strip, or not to strip?

Debate of the day: what is the proper way to eat pumpkin seeds?

I bought a little package of pumpkin seeds today to go with my lunch. Being the friendly office-mate that I am, I offered some to my co-workers. They declined, so I started eating them. I thought they were going to cry. "Holly, you have to open them first!!!"
I disagreed- explaining that while you are able to remove the shell, it isn't necessary with pumpkin seeds. The shell is soft, unlike sunflower seeds, for example- besides that where all the flavor is.
I made them try it my way. You would think I asked them to ingest cat claws or something judging by the looks of pain and disgust on their faces.
I, in turn, tried it their way. Fine, but cumbersome and unnecessary, I determined.

I started to think of all the people I had eaten pumpkin seeds socially with. A fair number, suprisingly. I think all of them ate with the shell on. But maybe I just don't remember.

So, I ask, which is the "right" way? To strip, or not to strip?