I think this article hits some of the big points. Basically we are conflict-averse to a fault—brusque is not how we do it. https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/nation/my-life-living-midwestern-nice EDIT: Wanted to add that it's a cultural thing. It can be frustrating sometimes but I think it has its upsides. I'm going to school on the east coast now and everyone is so abrasive out there. There was definitely some culture shock for me. I definitely prefer the Midwestern approach. Despite the shitty conflict resolution strategies I feel like people are nicer on the whole here.