how did the extreme religious right get that way?

[PornoDoggy]

I am not a fan of the Christian Right. I don't think they are either Christian or correct, personally.

They are nothing new, either. Revivals are a common theme in American history, and they have played a role in politics each time. The beginnings of the contemporary evangelical movement began in the late 60s/early 70s - about the height of the so-called counterculture of that era. It took the monkey's co-star to bring them into play as a partisan political force.

That being said - they are no more difficult to talk to than any other ideologue. Try talking to a PETA member about the value of animal based cancer research. Try talking about a balance between government regulation and free markets to either a Communist or a neo-con. Try talking ordinary common sense to an NRA tool or a member of the organized libertarian party.

My suggestion - try pissing into the wind. As frustrating as it is, it's more satisfying than any of the above.