Nuanced civilizations that have some good features and some bad features was my proposal: Elves as a whole not being racist (regardless of their individual alignments), but creating space for that one racist faction/organization within elven society that is clearly out-of-sync with heroic ideals (like the one that operates in Faerûn).
See, I would think very few cultures of any race would be "in-sync with heroic ideals". Most folks just want to carry on, be personally successful, and see to the safety of people they care about. Heroes are crazy people who risk their lives to do what they think is right. Governments do things because they derive benefit from them. Selflessness (particularly towards strangers) as a cultural trait should be pretty darn rare.
In a particular setting, I view the fey courts as governmental parliaments that are magocracies. It is the magical accomplishments that matter, not so much the family line, tho a powerful family can be known for individuals who are great mages.
I sympathize, and honestly, I myself want a break from Forgotten Realms.
Cultures can express altruism in different ways. Some might make hospitality to strangers sacred. Some might volunteer time and money. Some might champion a cause. And so on.
In-sync with heroic ideals meaning peoples the player characters are bringing justice to, sacrificing for, and helping to lift up (as opposed to factions/organizations with clearly villainous agendas).
Fair enough. Still wouldn't consider those "heroic ideals".
Is it necessary to like the people you're bringing justice to, etc.?
I didn't say that it was...
