Almost half of those surveyed opt out of political debates because of what they consider to be an overly aggressive tone. Among other things, they say the debates are "sandbox-level", filled with "dirt-throwing" and "everyone talking over each other".
A quarter of those surveyed say the harsh tone also affects their desire to vote.
Incivility has increased throughout society and in politics, says researcher Dan Hasson, one of the authors of TCO's report "The Politeness Commission".
Hasson sees the harsh tone as a negative spiral that reduces trust in society.
When politicians behave rudely, it risks spreading to other politicians and, of course, to voters. Ultimately, it increases the risk of getting undemocratic politicians who are much better at this game than others.
If the tone of conversation were improved, 54 percent would take part in more politics compared with today.
The survey is based on 1,041 interviews conducted between February 20 and 27 this year.
