Individuals invariably have unique and endearing qualities that make them special to us. Hitler is reputed to have been a great animal lover; Nietzsche was very fond of his sister (most of his adherents would say TOO fond and condemn her editing of his work. ) People as a whole, however, have a tendency to multiply the lowest common denominator, foster the worst vices of humanity without much of the moral restraint more common in individuals.

Or at least that's MY rationale for taking that view.