That is the thing isn't Donna :) what we think it's critical unemotional evaluation, others think it's prejudice. Also, you have raised an incredibly valuable point here, that of 'the human animal being a creature of habit and herd'. One of the arguments Social Identity Theory puts forwards is :
rather than the group mind being outside the individuals who comprise it, the group becomes located in the mind of its members.
Well, this is what grants someone their 'group membership', after all. But still, that doesn't stop the fact that the individual exists in a continuum which in one extreme is the personal identity, and in the other is the social identity. Neither of which should be neglected in the process of decision making, but rather equally consulted.
Yes, we live in interesting times. Times in which the minorities not only gained their deserved opportunity of being heard, but also the position to intimidate legitimate discussions. So, I better stop here, I don't want to be sent to room 101 ;)
The irony of the human condition too, is that it is always trying to find itself in the collective and yet in reality it is an isolated creature in a void of it's own perception.
Perhaps the fear of reality and the true solitary is too much for the general human capacity to face, so they turn away from their truth in themselves and embrace the shadows of the collective which only exists in their belief in it.
Sorry, rambling .I better have another cuppa and focus on painting and keep philosophizing to better minds :)
Your rambles are very welcome :)
Happy painting!