Yichusdik,
What you describe in an old phenomenon; anyone to my left is frei, anyone to my right is a fanatic. Nothing new here, and of course the ones to the left will always perceive those to the right as having “quiet paternalism or prejudice”, justified or not (and, granted, it certainly is at times justified, as are the accusations directed the other way). That’s just human nature. And paradoxically, the same “holier than thou” attitude expressed by those on the right is present by those on the left. Just look through these boards as a sample – you’ve been as guilty as anyone. You just think you’re right, so that makes it okay.