The ‘Assimilation Contrast Effect,’ described by Sherif and Hovland, shows that people’s perceptions of the other positions on the spectrum vary enormously according to their own position. For any particular issue or position, there is a spectrum of views for and against. In the middle are conciliators and mediators. There are pragmatists who take a position but are willing to do deals and able to see things from the other position. Closer to the extremes there are ideologues who see things as right and wrong, black and white. They are nevertheless able to negotiate. Zealots hold firmly to their positions and are willing to fight to get what they want. At the farthest extremes, flamethrowers actively seek opportunities to attack or destroy the enemy. All of us fall into each one of these categories at different times and in relation to different subjects. Some things we just couldn’t care less about, on other subjects we are pragmatic, and there are certain things that each of us would fight to the death over. There is a difference in the situation and make-up of each individual that explains their particular worldview. Towards the extremes, it is emotional differences that explain behaviour. Ideologues, zealots and flamethrowers have strong emotional attachments. They may be driven by a deep love of something, such as their country or religion, and when they feel violated by the other side, they are particularly dangerous.

In the world of politics, we should sincerely listen to all the parties, including those we hate, dislike or disrespect, not only so that they feel acknowledged, but because each of them contains a grain of truth and has something to add to our understanding of the complex whole. The more sincerely we do that, the better are our chances of reaching agreement or an effective solution. However, sometimes the rage, violence or irrationality of an extreme position is so intense, disruptive or dangerous that it does have to be limited, shutdown or excluded. We need to use our wisdom to find the right balance in any particular situation.