Science has learned recently that contempt and indignation are addictive mental states. I mean physically and chemically addictive. Literally! People who are self-righteous a lot are apparently doping themselves rhythmically with auto-secreted surges of dopamine, endorphins and enkephalins. Didn't you ever ask yourself why indignation feels so good?
David BrinSelf-awareness is probably overrated. A complex, self-regulating system doesn't need it in order to be successful, or even smart.
David Brin