if you never listen to other people, and take in the way they express themselves. you will never understand any other point of view than your own.

I so agree Al, and I live by that.
I engage with anyone whatever their views and never resort to abuse or personal attack.

I also believe that the belligerence and abusiveness of a group here towards anyone who challenges their own prejudice and preconceptions deters people from contributing and drives them away.
Most people do not like to be so abused.