just a few random thoughts…
I think the uncritically-thinking masses have always been around, and now, since it is much easier for them all to voice their views from the safety of a screen, we’re hearing a lot more from them. I’m not so sure that this is a new phenomenon… just one made easier by our society’s evolution.
As far as relativism, I think the issues surrounding so-called “postmodern” thought are complicated and most people don’t want to critically engage the epistemological quandries raised by various thinkers. I mention this because I do believe that most people begin with a basic idea and build their beliefs from there. And too many people have built their beliefs on either 1) there is no truth (which is self-defeating) or 2) there is truth, and I HAVE IT! If these are seen as the only two options, it’s no wonder that cynicism will begin to hold sway.
Also, I think it’s worth pointing out that this is not a phenomenon limited to one side of the political debate. Poor thinking is rampant on all sides.
