I was raised around people with similar mindsets -closed to say the least- for most of my life. Comments and feelings like that come from society, the way you are raised, a lack of knowledge about aspects of the world around you, and many times from a fear of the unknown. Many people are lacking in their knowledge of other cultures and beliefs, but they also have no inclination to change.

I would say education is the key, but people must be willing to listen in order to learn.