Hi, Jesse - fascinating post:)

The situation you described of a professional acting in an unprofessional manner and others seeming to ignore or miss it is very familiar to me.

Several quick thoughts:

1)  You described yourself vividly as an avid observer of people, so you know the value of the information you receive simply from being aware and paying attention to those around you.

Everyone does not have this ability and many seem disinclined to gain it.

2)  Politics comes into what we react to and what we ignore at work.  Some of the most obvious and worst behavior in organizations comes from those with the most power at the top of the hierarchy.   When a power differential exists between one person and another, normal rules of behavior are sometimes suspended.   Depending on the culture, they may be slightly "bent" or completely thrown out.

3)  You are absolutely right when you state that professionalism should be about open and honest communication.  Not everyone will have the ability or inclination to act professionally as you have defined it.

BTW, loved your example of the Dalai Lama and Donald Trump as the two extremes ... Nailed it:)

John