I just adore the style of The Hobbit, and I miss it muchly in LotR. LotR's style has its own merits, but I don't find it as utterly charming.

There's also a world of difference between slash not being your thing, and actively hating it.

Yeah, seriously O_o For some reason I found that people felt like it was very important to inform me that they don't like slash omg!

For some reason, in western societies, we've decided that everyone's opinion is somehow valid and untouchable, no matter how ill informed or offensive it is.

Dude, you are wise. I never thought of this, but it's so true. It's totally possible to respect someone's opinion but still point out when it's hurtful.