could it not be argued that in said club race scenario, you noting a protest on the offending boat might be an opportunity to encourage (or educate) that boat on rules knowledge?

I know many a keen sailor who protested me was nice enough to educate me on whatever rule I was afoul of. In some cases, Ding even told me how to avoid the infraction or move to block the other boat's ability to put me in a fouling situation.

Perhaps the current culture's view of "rubbin' is racin" and our promotion of "bad boys/girls" who gain notoriety by pushing limits and rules might have something to do with this behavior?