I firmly believe it is the zero sum nature of a dominance-based hierarchy. We're all steeped in this in every aspect of our culture, from school yard bullies, to overbearing fathers, to executives and CEOs who have a higher level of psychopathic traits than the average population. We look at ruthlessness and might makes right as strength and leadership, and at cooperation and win-win as not only not really possible but weak. Until we significantly impact that, no amount of racial sensitivity training, or sexual harassment abatement initiatives will make a significant impact. Homophobia and other forms of discrimination based in immutable traits will continue.

We're seeing first hand on the political stage right now how desperately a significant segment of the population are to maintain the hierarchy. I really do think they believe that they will be subject to the same sort of oppression if anyone else gains "the upper hand."