"Studies have found that authoritarian followers are among the most prejudiced people in society. It is the nastiest aspect of their ethnocentrism, and one they insistently deny—to others and to themselves. And they really do not realize how prejudiced they are, compared with others, because they associate so much with other prejudiced people. So their prejudices seem normal and perfectly justified to them."
https://www.theauthoritarians.org/comment-on-the-tea-party-movement/
In other words, socializing with bigoted people can help them become both less bigoted, and less succeptible to following authoritarian leaders. If you can't handle doing that or you choose not to, no judgment. It's not compulsory and neither should it be. But maybe think twice before you accuse people of sympathizing with nasty ideas, just because they choose to socialize with people who broadcast them.
Ironically, I know the people who most need to read the preceding posts have probably already muted or blocked me for making similar arguments, eg in defence of Fedilab's decision not to hardcode an instance blocklist. They've most likely blocked anyone who might boost it too, for similar reasons. But if even one person reads what I posted and feels better about continuing to hang out with a friend or family member who has ... unfortunate views, and arguing the toss with them, it was worth it.
You're 100% right and I've read a lot of similar research recently (listed below) that clearly indicates that if you engage with people, and present arguments, they are ready to change their views.
I do engage with people who I don't agree with (be it racism, be it environmental issues, be it politics) and while this can be very frustrating sometimes, I still believe it's definitely worth it.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/pops.12568
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/tops.12187#.XtezlXanM1o.twitter
