How come the general public does not respect quiet people?

[justagrandma]

Social intercourse is expected in a social culture, you appear to be rude and indifferent to your compatriots.
Minding your own business is one thing, being seen as cold and uncaring is another.

If you were in kindergarten you'd get one of those 'Does not play well with others", and its not to your advantage as you age, look for a job or a romantic partner. If you have social anxiety you need to work on overcoming it, its a half life you live if avoiding interaction is your goal.
Old and tired saying, "Its the squeaky wheel that gets the oil", well its the person who interacts well with others who is respected by them.

I wouldn't call you mean or evil, far from it. But you seem to think that in a situation you can withdraw from others and focus only on yourself. And that gives a very different impression to others that you are unaware of. You did, after all, ask why trouble seems to follow you, and its your withdrawal from normal social behavior that makes people displeased. We are social animals, and our lives often depended on our ability to get along with others. Our arena is much larger than the small clan or tribe, but its just as relevant to the why's of our behavior.