Why do people so harshly immediately bash others' political points of view?

Question

I wonder why people on here can't talk rationally and calmly about political issues without immediately saying "Oh yeh, all you ___ are all the same" and stuff like that?

Answer 1

I think people CAN discuss calmly and rationally. A lot just choose not to. Maybe it's because they can be anonymous on the net behind their computer and spew out angry stuff that they might not say in person - or they at least might tone it down in person.

I also think a lot of people are just too close minded and ignorant to consider another point of view. They follow what the masses say, then repeat it. That's easier than truly considering another point of view, or forming your own opinion. Just spew out what's been said before, and get to see themselves in print! ;)

Either way, thanks for asking a great question. I love talking politics - even with people who totally disagree with my standpoint - as long as it's calm, rational, and intelligent conversation!

Answer 2

Considering I've just been told I must be brain damaged from the '60s, I'm wondering the same thing.
That goes even one step further, its not my political point of view, its my mental health and my nonexistent hippie past.
If I don't agree with someone that means I used to be a drug user? That's personal, and uncalled for.
If we can't disagree, and exchange viewpoints without succumbing to personal attacks we all lose.
That's what its come to, no sense, no rationality, just rumors and innuendos passing as truth. No logic at all, ignore anything that doesn't fit a preconceived pattern and smear the opposition. George Bush took office claiming he was going to heal the divides of the country, that in fact he was a uniter, then he pulled every dirty, nasty, trick in the book to lead us to this end. I suppose as long as we are calling each other schoolyard names, we aren't going to notice whats going on in real terms in this country.

Answer 3

This format is especially suited for such heated exchanges. People have to get their point across with limited space. Longer, rambling answers are often ignored because it's "too hard" to read all of it. Shorter attention-grabbing sound bytes stand out and are more easily noticed. It is all due to the limitations of this particular medium we are using.

It is great when people of opposing views can remain calm and had a respectful moderated debate, but this is just NOT the place for it.

Answer 4

Politics involve passion and many people albeit sometimes misguided have a passionate voice in their opinions. Nevertheless they want to voice this opinion as strongly as they can muster it. That doesn't mean that they couldn't be more civil, but many don't have the communications skills necessary to contrive a intelligent response, so they go with the loud passionate response.

Answer 5

People can't talk about opposing views on anything without some taking that route. "Oh, yeah well you_______are all like that!" Pick your topic. Politics, religion, societal views, etc. Republican or Democrat? Liberal or conservative? Christian or Jewish? Chevy or Ford? Vanilla ice cream or chocolate? Its ridiculous, really. We separate ourselves into these little cliques that don't even really exist. "Oh, ok you like Van Halen? Ok then you can join us against the people who like Motley Crue." I wish some people could hear themselves.....

Answer 6

I think polititics, like religion is something people are usually close minded about and hold close to their hearts. Usually when people discuss politics, they have their stand on an issue and stick to it.

Answer 7

I know. You're right. I think it's because most of the people don't know why they believe what they believe. Other views are threatening.

Answer 8

That's politics. Did you ever hear the admonition: "Don't discuss politics or religion?"

Answer 9

Oh yeah, well you are all just the same!!