That's an incredible description, and I'm feeling a deeper empathy for Conservatives than I had before. It's fucking tragic what they do to themselves; it seems a sad life to lead.

Sometimes when I find myself struggling to grasp something that's beyond me, I recognise an instinct within myself that wants to become hostile and belligerent at the text, as you describe — to do whatever is necessary to reorient myself such that I am smart and capable, instead of being thoroughly humbled by the uncomfortable experience of personal growth. I've become pretty skilled at recognising that instinct, and running in the opposite direction (that is, into the things that challenge me), but I can imagine what kind of person I'd become if I indulged it.

I remember having been awake for 50-something hours, and getting on a plane. I spent what felt like 3 minutes trying to cram my bag into the overhead compartment, before a flight attendant reached out, rotated it 90 degrees and slid it in no problem.

I often think of that when I see someone being an absolute moron.

I don't need to imagine it. I'm still a liberal, because I have friends and empathy.