The Previous Administration has created a Culture of Fear and Paranoia in the US. People in all walks of life now believe in stories that are half baked from quotes taken out of context. It is incredible how many people fear their neighbors and are afraid to help out due to these misplaced fears.
I squarely put a lot of the fear mongering on the Bush Administration for this, since it stems from policies pushed through congress on the tails of "For the Children" or "Terrorist" Speak. OMG People get some education. If you see something on TV, do a little more research before you believe outlandish stories. Even on the Internet, if you see a story being reported, look up some of the facts or google and educate yourself.
Okay. :) Getting off my soapbox now.
It's partly due to the whole "you're either with us or against us" mentality pushed by Bushco. People are afraid to stand up for their rights for fear of appearing unAmerican. But standing up for your rights and questioning your government is exactly what being a U.S. citizen means! It's what we fought for and are still fighting for. It's what our troops die for (support them - not the war). It's what this country was built on. Stop the fear, live free, don't let the terrorists win.