That is what it all boils down to for me.
*nods* While I agree with equuscentric that Rodney is a strong enough character that we don't need to character assassinate, I think it's one of the ways we use to compare and contrast the characters. Rodney is the more developed character because of these things, and we kind of want that for the other characters too, so we can understand them. But also so we don't have to feel so protective of our character, because we can see that others are picking on him.

I have read a some fics where John is mean to Rodney, especially of the Post Trinity variety, but then again, I like fics, that many consider bad!fic, because sometimes I'm just in the mood for something that is overly dramatic and can make me cry.
But yeah, for the most part, the fanfic in this fandom is pretty awesome, and we see them more as equals, or as embracing their flaws and living through it.

And I haven't watched House for a while, but I saw the first two seasons. That quote sounds so very apt for Wilson though. :)