What's his go-to proof for all this, and does anyone at the table ever try to engage with it?

That wasn't a discount, that was a bribe.

My college professor, Dr. Evans, once pulled me aside after class. He told me my essay was a mess and listed every single mistake. I was upset for days, but it forced me to learn how to write properly. Looking back, that harsh talk was what I needed to hear. It's funny how the truth can hurt but still help you grow.