Why be rude?

It is obvious there are people here who have different point of views from each other. But when disagreeing with a point...is it necessary to put it in ways that might offend another? I do believe there are polite ways to state one's point. "It is their personality.", you might say. We all have a way and right to speak the way we please. Right? Sure. Everyone does. But since when does freedom of speech mean we also hold the right to hurt someone? When I see a person resorting to rude words, while trying to prove their point in and debate / discussion, I assume they are resorting to such behavior because they can no longer defend their point. So let's agitate the opponent so they will give in or give up. There is always option 3, walk away from the conversation when you find it turning unproductive....which I have noticed many wise people here opting for too. Maybe if we could all know kinder ways to communicate, find ways to be civil with each other...there might be MORE people initiating discussions where we can exercise our intellect along with the softer discussions that we already have and enjoy.

Having said that, I am aware that there are people in the world who are not capable of being polite.