It's the road less traveled thing. Philosophy, religion and science all share this common trait. Herd mentality and the social drive is evidently stronger than either the drive to find the truth or to find character. I can't judge anyone, I've been guilty of that from time to time. But I think an important start is honestly realizing what motivates oneself, and I think you're right in saying that a lot of times it's aesthetics and/or percieved status rather than performance.Preconceived notions definitely have a strong influence, and I'd say most people have their minds made up, for right or wrong, and facts won't sway them one way of another. Most suffer an extreme case of contempt prior to investigation, which prevents them from honestly looking at anything other than what they already believe.