Let's Give Each Other Some Credit

Why are people so quick to think the worst of each other? Sometimes, when someone says something, people take it at it's most negative meaning. Why do people not give each other the benefit of the doubt? Why do people think they have to play the "devil's advocate" in every discussion? It's almost like people think they should argue a point just to make sure an argument gets made. I don't think being friends or family excludes anyone from having this happen to them. People, no matter their relationship to the person, will always jump on things they say and twist it to it's worst meaning. I don't know why human nature is this way. You would think that family and friends would be the MOST understanding and tolerant of a person, but I think often that isn't the case. And is it today's society only, or has this been going on throughout time? We all need to give each other a little credit and quit thinking the worst about each other.