Food for thought

I was watching an episode of 'Master in the House' with French science fiction writer, Bernard Weber as a guest and I learned so much from it. One part, in particular, made me reflect:

The society only teaches you how to judge. Even during first impressions, you are taught to judge if the person is decent or not. Even with simple two-way communication, many aren't interested to listen; they are just waiting to reply. 

If we fail to listen and communicate at a fundamental level, how can we truly learn to take an interest in societal issues?