Oh what a day...

Clutch switches can work both ways. In the early 70's I nearly "had a cow" on a goat. I was somewhat dirty and did not want to get into the car. Reached in and twisted the switch, then realized it has a clutch switch. ALSO it had the reverse / column lock interlock.

I balanced on my left foot, reached in, put my foot on the clutch with my right. Pulled the shifter "out of gear." What I DID NOT REALIZE is that the shifter was a bit out of adjustment and it DID NOT ACTUALLY come out of reverse.

Twisted the key, let out the clutch and the CAR STARTED TO THE REAR!!!!

Now let's "replay" that with no clutch switch..........the car is in some gear, you reach in and twist the key. The car lurches, and you IMMEDIATELY are startled and release the key. VERY doubtful it will fire and run in that "instant."