Too terrified to stand up and be counted? Too afraid they will be targeted for something bad so they observe and sometimes experience but shut up about it. They float along in life going where the currant current takes them.
I dunno. Is that really a LIFE WELL LIVED?
Religion and politics are the 2 most controversial subjects on earth. Everyone has their own opinions on one or both of them and will vehemently defend those opinions - whether those opinions are accurate or not. Even the most kind and polite person can become a monster if their opinion on religion and/or politics is challenged. To avoid this situation, many simply avoid these two subjects.