Stop with the insults.

When did it become OK to insult others while we express our own opinions?
I see it all the time- in politics, on television, and on the internet (especially on blogs).
Don't get me wrong- I am all for standing up for what you believe in.  But just because it's what you believe, doesn't mean it's what someone else believes, or what I believe, or that it's OK to bash people over the head.
I've recently been following a couple of "hot" topics online.  The group has some very valid concerns.  The problem is that in the heat of the issue, several have resorted to personally insulting those that may have a differing opinion.  They've all but said, "You're ugly and your mother dresses you funny".  Just because someone doesn't agree with you, doesn't make them wrong (any more than it makes you right).  Some have even reminded me of the "preacher" at the farmer's market, who stands on his soap box shouting at people that they are all going to hell.  Seriously, who is he reaching with that message?
We need to communicate our frustrations without personally attacking people with a different opinion.  Discuss the issues, not the feelings.  Offer a solution, not an insult.  When you result to insults, you actually water down the point you are trying to make.  You anger & frustrate others, and often alienate as many as you convince.
STOP!  Re-read before you hit "send".  What is your post really saying?