None of these points have applied to them. I get the feeling it might be a case of culture differences, maybe the toxic landlording mentioned in the meme is more prevalent in the US?

Sure he did, but he provided me with a place to live at, which otherwise I couldn't have afforded. Just like any other service or goods provider.

I'd say it depends on the scale and the intentions.

Perhaps, if you could explain what "ethical" means in this context.

My previous one hasn't raised rent for five years, and even then he asked if it would be okay with us. Which it was, for even the raised rent was significantly below the market rate and he always responded quickly to any issues we have raised. He was a blue-collar worker who inherited a flat he didn't want to sell, so rented it out to those who couldn't afford to buy a property on their own.