Well first, I stand alone on many issues anyway, especially religious and political issues. Second, I firmly believe that people ought to think for themselves, though now I question whether some possess that capacity or not. Third, I don't like or see the point in arguing; most arguments to me are misunderstandings rooted in vague interpretations of definitions. If everyone really questioned things, they would realize that most arguments are pointless. Forth, even if there is a legitimate argument, to wish for the opposition to not exist is to wish for my annihilation as well as I'm a fan of interdependent origination (thank you Buddha). Fifth, political opinions, religions, and most human behavior is determined by personality, which I believe is largely determined by genetics (environment plays a part too though). Political and religious orientations, as well as the depth of these sentiments in each individual, seem to me to be products of environment and fixed personality. Sixth, most people don't take responsibility for themselves anyway, so I have a hard time taking them seriously. I don't believe that their sentiments are legitimate more often than not, and most people are filled with ignorance and hate, including myself.
So that was kind of ridiculous, but now you get an idea why I don't care about defending what I think. I say what I think and if people disagree, good for them. They don't build monuments for critics anyway.
Also, in the case of the United States. I don't feel responsible for defending America. The U.S. is a country, and generalizations about any country are absurd most of the time. Patriotism is an instrument invented by greedy elitists to dupe the less privileged into fighting absurd imperialist wars. I'm not going to die in an imperialist war fighting for the rich.
BTW, I think you're a really great person. I wish I was as versatile as you (based on your interests).