Critical Mass — Helping or Hurting the Cause of Bicyclists?

The ongoing issue between bicyclists and cars (and pedestrians?) in Boston has seemed to surfaced lately as a more polarizing topic than before. So much so, that it came to near violence at the last Critical Mass Boston event.  Even the most discussed involves whether or not bikers obey the rules. The Hubway has already contributed to this discussion as well, considering that there have been reports of people using these new toys are riding on the sidewalk without helmets.

Critical Mass Boston is part of a world-wide movement to promote bicycle awareness.  It seems that not everyone sees it that way. I've ridden in Critical Mass Boston a few times and I thought it was fun.  People handed out rules to follow before the ride, everyone was friendly and the overall attitude was positive, not mean-spirited at all.  The reaction from the people we passed seemed mostly positive - a few people wore scowls, but most waved, took pictures, or cheered.

Reading the various comments online, I'm shocked to hear that people think Critical Mass is just a horrible and disruptive band of rogue cyclists.   I'm further shocked to see how hateful people are towards cyclists.  I agree that people don't always obey the rules, but isn't this a bigger issue involving everyone out on the road?  Can it be said without a doubt that there are more traffic violations and accidents involving bicycles and not cars? It seems that the most dangerous vehicles out there hold the most responsibility... which is a scary thing when you read the hateful reponses for so many of these articles.

Why are people on bicycles the main target?  Is it because of the recent increase in bicycles without the increase of awareness or are they really all out to ruin everyone's commute? Is Critical Mass really ruining the bicycle movement?  If so, what else can be done to increase awareness?