I definitely stay away from most political discussion with those I know have bought extreme positions wholesale - usually (though not exclusively) right of center. Public discourse has degenerated over the last generation; standardized talking points and attacks on "the enemy" have replaced most reasoned thought and any real attempt to come to constructive resolution.

Partisanship has significantly impacted my discussions with family and friends to the point where I actually refrain from discussion with certain people who I know will be difficult to talk to. I love well rounded discussion with those who have differing opinions from my own, and I can always learn something new. However, partisanship has tended to evoke greater fire from people, and the moment a conversation becomes too heated, I instantly feel uncomfortable. Partisanship, it seems, has also given people the false assumption that a person holds ALL of the beliefs of a side they only GENERALLY stick to. Because of this, I have seen harsh value judgements and assumptions being made that end up offending more than presenting logical arguments.

The polarization hasn't influenced my conversations at all. As a matter of fact...the folks I converse with on these topics, enjoy a good debate! I have friends from all over the "political map"...and they know, as do I, that we are completely safe to express our opinions with each other. So much has to do with our comfort in knowing that underneath even our most varied viewpoints, we basically want, on a very human level, the same things...opportunities to pursue happiness, a sense of well-being and a safe place to live.