I don't think they hate mechanical keyboards per se, but the noise pollution that they've associated with keyboards that have Cherry MX Blue switches, or an IBM

I don't think they hate mechanical keyboards per se, but the noise pollution that they've associated with keyboards that have Cherry MX Blue switches, or an IBM Model F or M, or Northgate Omnikey Ultra. It was fine back in the day in the computer lab in high-school or wherever else that it's not bothering people, but not fine to bring in a clicky keyboard, full tower PC and a 37" monitor to a coffeeshop where 50 students are studying for finals, or in an open office environment where every little motion and noise has the potential to distract everyone else.