Why does it seem like we are all so inclined to pick a side and and dig in, defend it and block out anything that comes from "the other side"? It is obviously the case in U.S. politics these days.  You pick a party/candidate and only listen to points coming from their "side".  Everyone denies they do it but most get caught doing exactly that.

It isn't just politics though.  If you aren't ready to declare your support of gay marriage then you're a homophobe.  If you are for cracking down on illegal immigration, you're a racist.  Something bad happens, you have to choose who to blame.  You somehow know better than anyone what should or shouldn't have been done, who did something wrong and how they should be punished for it.

There doesn't seem to be any measured response any more.  You have to be for or against, anti or pro, right or wrong.  Empathy and sympathy, investigation and due diligence have given way to instant judgement and condemnation.  Someone has to be wrong and they have to be put in their place...now!