Understanding zealots

Janet Albrechtsen’s analysis of the perilous pursuit of non-conformists is a worthy thesis, but what’s really significant is the apparent fear of difference these people display in their persecution of others whose opinions run counter to their own. This fear seems based on an arrogant self-righteousness that threatens the fabric of our democracy and we need to think about why this is happening so often.

Why are people so afraid to listen and hear diversity of opinion? Are they so insecure and hyper-sensitive to those espousing contrary views? We have lost our way in creating a rational and critical discourse on socio-political issues. We should invest time and thought in understanding these new religious zealots to ensure their pulpit power is discredited, if not destroyed if we want to continue to live in harmony.