Some people seem to consider themselves morally and ethically superior when they boast that "they tell it as it is", and say exactly what they think, without a moment’s thought for the other person.

Far from being superior, they are being self-indulgent and smug.  The civilized person tries not to hurt other people’s feelings and early in life learns to be circumspect, keep quiet or at least find something nice to say , rather than blurt out an unconsidered, hurtful opinion. 

If you are proud of being a loud-mouthed bully and a jerk, be aware that it is always someone else who has to spend time and energy trying to comfort and reassure the person you have hurt,  other people being a mixture of emotions including sensitivity and lack of self-confidence.  There are those who are sick and have mental difficulties and who simply don’t know any better,and can’t help blurting things out – – we need to have patience and compassion for these people.  For the rest of the population be aware that it is crass, not clever to be "forthright" and that tact, consideration and diplomacy get you more places than telling people exactly what you think.