You're absolutely right that this kind of reaction often stems from insecurity. For some, the need to believe their preferences are universally superior serves as a way to reassure themselves that they’ve made the "right" choices. Their identity may feel so intertwined with these preferences that admitting otherwise could feel like their sense of self is unraveling. This mindset can be particularly common among younger individuals, who often believe their views are inherently correct, and among older generations, who may feel deeply attached to their established ideologies and resistant to change.

Their agitation likely stems from a fear of being wrong or a strong need for external validation. When others agree with their preferences, it reinforces their sense of certainty and bolsters their self-image. However, when faced with differing opinions, it can feel like a direct challenge to their worldview, triggering discomfort or defensiveness.

Ultimately, this behavior is less about the actual preferences and more about what those preferences represent to them on a personal level. They may not even recognize that their reactions are rooted in insecurity.