I think it's also cultural. British for example are very worried abou sub-text and saving face. West coast americans are more worried about coming across as pos

I think it's also cultural. British for example are very worried abou sub-text and saving face. West coast americans are more worried about coming across as positive and use superlatives that other cultures find exagerated. Nordic and Central Europe cultures value 'straight talk' and saying what you will do, and doing what you say you will do. Generally when you ask for feedback you are expected to have a thick skin when professors/experts review your work. I am not excusing abuse but I am pointing out that it is misguided to look at one work culture through the lens of another.