So what's up with shields?

[Dubont]

Seems like this system is just another way of having "control" over your char.
It seems more entertaining knowing you have the option to throw your shield up at the moments you need them, rather than having the game do it for you.
because of that, the stats SHOULD only apply when you use the shield.

The question here, though, is do stats work during casting/attacking with your shield up? Some say they do, most say they don't. Testing results vary...