How did it pass that the political left in this country "progressed" from "live and let live" to "cancel culture". They rebelled against being told what to do or think and now embrace the role of telling others what to do and think. And they are comfortable shaming others and threatening the livelihoods of others who do not conform to their particular preferred thoughts and actions (best keep track, because the goal posts on what is allowed and not allowed move frequently and unexpectedly).
I am sure the folks living in France in the 1790s were similarly confused by the craziness that surrounded them. The mobs in our midst are no different from those watching the guillotines in action. Mentally ill or in need of counseling (to say the least). That's who we are dealing with. The actions of mobs should influence us; but not in the way intended by those participating.
Disclaimer: I don't care what you think. Your thoughts don't cause me anxiety, unless you think that my scalp is going to be a trophy on your wall. If we could all just stop talking offense at what other people think, the world will be a safer place. And for those of you who think that cancel culture is a participation sport, my guess is that your reckoning is coming sooner than later.
Behind every socialist wearing a mask (leftism necessitates wearing masks) is an authoritarian dictator, in waiting.