I've noticed this as well regarding theology and private gun ownership. To begin a discussion about religion with any attitude other than critical seems to incite a very negative response among most engineers (and tangentially, people who strongly identify with "internet culture"). An assumption of 'rightness' is very strong on these issues, from both sides.

I have NOT noticed this at all with regards to nuclear power stations. I've found that there is a fairly even divide among 'reductionist' or science-praising mindsets about nuclear being net negative or net positive.

just my two anecdotal cents.