I believe most of the extreme views on either end are boosted by the intentionally outrage-inducing social media algorithms. But there has been an evolution in conservative/progressive philosophies. Conservatives are now more likely to push the paternalistic nanny state, seeking to remove mifepristone but not the more dangerous viagra, policing what kids read and insisting they will feel bad if they learn actual verifiable history. Freedom is also misused in the conservative embrace of 'don't tell me what to do, but I'll tell you.' When we live collectively in society we agree not to harm one another, hence red lights and speeding laws, and those do hinder our freedom, but we agree to concessions for collective safety. Vaccine mandates might have been seen as overreach, but there is a difference; no one was held down against their will to be jabbed by a needle, but maybe couldn't go into sporting events or job sites without it. Vaccines were intended for collective safety in public spaces, so people could have opted to stay out of public spaces. There is no comparison to girls and women being forced to carry a child or being policed on social media or inter-state travel bans. There is a difference there. Forcing pregnancy does not keep collective society safe, it literally takes away freedom. The intention of the culture wars is to create division that for most of us does not exist apart from social media sites and politicized news programs. I'm going to continue focusing on meaningful action and creating community wherever I can.