I think the problem stems from new cyclists following the example of the many cyclists that do jump red lights. When I started cycling to work I was also a red light jumper- following the example set by others.

Like a pedestrian, a cyclist is quite capable of making sure the road is clear ahead before going through a red (although I have seen evidence to the contrary!) which is part of the reason why many a cyclist doesn't feel the need to stop.

I don't jump red lights any more or do any of the other things cyclists are constantly lambasted for. And it wasn't the law, it wasn't cops waiting at red lights catching out cyclists and it wasn't even directly a safety issue that stopped me doing it. It was the fact that cyclists are a huge target for aggressive motorists and pedestrians and the only way to change the tide in opinion is to be the responsible and considerate road user.

With my change in attitude I found in general that motorists and pedestrians were more friendly. My commute is more enjoyable, less stressful and I delight in overtaking red light jumpers when I inevitably catch up to them (why are only the slowest cyclists red light jumpers?!).

This doesn't mean I don't have any problems at all with other users, I do but less than before and I can take with me the knowledge that it was the other road user at fault.

As has been said before on this thread, there are *******s and morons in each road user group (lorry driver, car driver, motorcylist, cyclist and pedestrian). And the thing about *******s and morons is that they don't like to be told when they're in the wrong. Anyone who has been brought up to have a modicum of responsibility and respect for others will learn what is the right thing to do. And the people that don't have these personal traits- well I don't think you're ever going to change them. Not without consistent reprimands anyway.