The Left was already using this as a tool at the time of the french revolution. Personally, I don't waste a moment on the issue of hypocrisy. I weigh a person's stated principles when I judge his ideas. His behavior is something that belongs in a different conversation.
I generally agree, especially in the political arena. In most cases in politics, it is just immoral people who put up a false front of morality in public and then get caught with their hand in the cookie jar.
Outside of politics, all people (except for saints) have their failings and don't always live up to their own beliefs. The test comes when you admit you failing and make amends and vow to do better in the future.