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and recently saw it writ large, in US policy toward those countries that refused to support the US invasion of Iraq.

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I think it's important to realize that there is usually a quid pro quo involved, certainly when it comes to politics.
It's played out here somewhat at PC also... in that if a member gives positive regard to another, they expect the same in return.

It's the more seasoned - and perhaps better healed- member who realizes that not everyone is in a good place to be able to give back positive words at that time when they are in the throes of a disorder, and thus does not take offense at an off-kilter response to their positive one.

Being "overly" nice is only an issue if others don't feel it's genuine. The only way, imo, to combat that is to prove them otherwise.

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It seems to be characteristic of dictatorial political regimes

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I think what we see in the above is quite different than a personal positive outlook. As stated, the regimes are in denial and possibly implementing a type of brainwashing. For those of us who find a positive outlook and spirit is just plain healthy and a better way to live, it isn't denial but a goal for living.