The pre-internet world was much more of an "echo chamber" than today. The internet has created a constant firehose of exposure to diametrically-opposed beliefs, and this is what has actually driven "polarization." It's a self-defense response to constant exposure to conflicting worldviews. It was easier to find common ground before communication was this broad and instantaneous. You're more likely to have at least some things in common with those in close proximity, making compromise easier. (This isn't just me having an opinion, it's been studied and IMO the argument holds up.)
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