There are many reasons a person might struggle to make friends. For instance, some people were poorly socialized, or have some kind of early-childhood developmental trauma that makes it difficult to feel the appropriate emotions when talking to people. Others naturally have trouble with empathy and so are unable to smoothly navigate social interactions. And some just naturally aren't interested in learning about other people's lives, or in telling others about themselves. So they have to force themselves somehow.
I agree with you: these artificial systems are pathological and unpleasant. But sometimes it can seem like the only option.
My impression is that you've never struggled with any of these very basic aspects of life. Consider that not everybody's experience is the same.