While I'm not one of the people you mention, I certainly hope it does! Difference in opinion, that encourages involvement and conversation, is one good way to find the best path(s) forward in just about anything.

I'm currently in a 9-month long Civic-based leadership class in my city, run by the local Chamber of Commerce. It's been a great experience with exposure to everyone that make the local government (and related organizaions) run, as well as growing community trusteeship.

As technology/business people, I'd encourage everyone to find something similar, that is local, and do it.