So having some respect to yourself, your time (and time of those doing inteviews) is now seen as being rude, prima dona and burning bridges? Interesting.
Is economy being different ten years ago valid reason to pretend that you like what you don't really like, waste time and engage in ass-licking? Because, you know, thing may turn up differently someday?
You're creating a false dichotomy here. No one is saying you should go around 'asslicking' as you so colorfully put it, no one is even saying you should be sucking up to them, just be polite.
But are you seriously condemning being polite? Just be a decent human being, don't act like you're better than everyone while ditching an interview.
From the sound of it he could have been more graceful about it. Speaking to the manager and thanking him instead of just walking out.
Maybe this guy is such a super genius that everybody will forgive him for being a socially ignorant ass. Those of us mere mortals though should probably learn to be at least a little considerate and not burn bridges wherever we go. People are not robots - they don't like being treated as such even if it is "logical."
There are ways to avoid wasting your time without being a dick. That is clearly not what this guy did.
If you consider making up a white lie about a sick relative or pulling one person aside and very politely saying this isn't for you 'ass-licking' - then sure, sometimes you need to lick some ass. Most people just consider that kind of behavior part of being a civilized human being though.
Is economy being different ten years ago valid reason to pretend that you like what you don't really like, waste time and engage in ass-licking? Because, you know, thing may turn up differently someday?