Those who come to engage in debates of consequence, and who challenge accepted wisdom, should expect to be treated badly. Nonetheless, they must stand undaunted. That is required. And that should be expected, for it is bravery that is required to secure freedom. Much emphasis these days is placed on who has the quickest tongue, and who looks best on television.
Perceptions are more important than reality.
But this is madness. No car has ever crashed into a mirage. No imaginary army has ever invaded a country. Even if one has a valid position, and is intellectually honest, he has to anticipate nasty responses aimed at the messenger rather than the argument. The objective is to limit the range of the debate, the number of messengers, and the size of the audience.