“Belief polarization” is driving the shutdown more than political disagreement, according to a philosopher who studies democracy. Like-minded people become more extreme versions of themselves, not because of evidence, but because they want to fit in with their peers. https://theconversation.com/blame-the-shutdown-on-citizens-who-prefer-politicians-to-vanquish-their-opponents-rather-than-to-work-for-the-common-good-269041