An American Political Divide

The smug style in American liberalism article begins with stating that "American life is not divided by moral difference or policy divergence" but "by the failure of half the country to know what's good for them." This statement caught my attention. Though the article delves into a slightly different interpretation of the statement, I feel that this very strongly describes the current overall political climate.
Divides between opinions are sharp, and often polarized. Though to me consideration of other's opinions and openness to different ideas seems crucial for actual progress, politics often appears to be a game of opposition. To me - "The failure of half the country to know what's good for them." - often describes the relationship between the dominating political parties.
I cannot say whether this is a divide that has grown stronger in recent years, or whether it has always existed but I believe it is often a factor that hinders the U.S. Political discussions, I've found, always go better if everyone is not only educated in what they're speaking about but also willing to listen to other's points of views rather than immediately strike them down should they differ from their own. I'm guilty as anyone else is for sticking to my beliefs, but I have learned that considering other's viewpoints is just as important as expressing mine. Should we lessen the belief that half the country doesn't know what's good for them, I believe that political progress may be easier to come by.