[zasdffaa]

...because it's about the person critiquing, not the art. Their image of themselves in the eyes of others, not the art. The art is simply a stepladder with which to raise themselves up.

There are many honorable exceptions, and they are well worth talking to when you find them (you'll disagree but you will learn something) but many more who claim to like it because they fear what they might be seen as if they don't.

I'll note that IME those who know most about art and genuinely love it are least willing to put up a facade.