But maybe that is what it will take - the zealots get their shot at power and the results of their leadership (ostracism, poverty, isolation) turns the people against zealotry. It may take generations but they will have to learn from their mistakes -- they aren't learning from our mistakes (believing in royalty) or successes (liberal (in the good sense) government) that brought enlightenment, wealth creation, science, medicine, arts, wellbeing.
Good point.