The division of our society has reached dangerous levels
The belief that “the other side” poses an existential threat is destructive
Northern Ireland - “The Troubles” between Catholics and Protestants
Inflammatory rhetoric leads to political violence
It's not about being more polite.
Words have power.
America cannot come together to solve our most pressing problems until we stop the relentless demonization of the other side.
Many Republican voters view Democrats as radical socialists trying to turn America into a totalitarian nightmare like Venezuela. Democratic voters view Republicans as authoritarians who have given up on democracy and want to turn America into a fascist state. Why would either side be willing to work together with a people that they believe are trying to destroy the country?
Extreme language leads to extreme actions.
Accusing one’s political opponents of treason (and, in some cases, calling for their mass execution) is not just empty rhetoric. Such language allows previously unthinkable behavior to become normalized in people’s minds. (Concentration camps only became possible after the public was bombarded with dehumanizing rhetoric equating Jews to cockroaches and parasites that must be exterminated.)