question:  Why are people insistent on pointing out others' flaws?
context: THE PERFECTIONISTS By ARNOLD CASTLE ILLUSTRATED by SUMMERS Is there something wrong with you? The series of events leading up to Pembroke's present occupation had commenced on a dismal, overcast evening in the South Pacific a year earlier. Pembroke came as close to being a professional adventurer as one can in these days of regimented travel, organized peril, and political restriction. Life had given him much and demanded little, which was perhaps the reason for his restiveness. Loyalty to person or to people was a trait Pembroke had never recognized in himself, nor had it ever been expected of him. And yet he greatly envied those staunch patriots and lovers who could find it in themselves to elevate the glory and safety of others above that of themselves. Lacking such loyalties, Pembroke adapted quickly to the situation in which he found himself when he regained consciousness. One in particular, an attractive woman of about thirty, tossed back her long, chestnut locks and gazed up intently at Pembroke as he passed. "I'm not good enough, am I? "You're not casual enough, for one thing," said Pembroke, deciding to play along with her for the moment. Also you're a bit knock-kneed, not that it matters. "Don't try to go so fast and you won't fall down," suggested Pembroke. But you can look frumpy and still walk natural, can't you? "Well, they've got a point," said Pembroke. "Incidentally, just where are we, anyway? But as he left the shop he began checking off every west coast state, city, town, and inlet. None, to the best of his knowledge, was called Puerto Pacifico. "Not enough slang, huh? "All cargo ships, I'll bet. The topic of the conversation turned out to be precisely what Pembroke had predicted. "Well, Louisa, I'd say your only fault is the way you keep wigglin' your shoulders up 'n' down.
output:  Pointing out flaws is considered positive feedback for those pretending to be human.
options:  Being polite is considered too passive in the society.  Pointing out flaws is considered positive feedback for those pretending to be human.  Being insecure and not taking criticism is a sign of weakness in the society.  Pointing out flaws is part of the social rapport for this group, and is considered normal.