It's an awful burden to bear. But remember these people have jobs they have to do and it may be the only way they can make money. The least we can do is be civil. I know it's hard and I fail at it myself at times, but they still deserve some respect.
If you don't agree, then just play games if it makes you feel better. I personally would not want to be on the receiving end of that. And hopefully you'll never have to resort to being a telemarketer yourself so you can see how it is firsthand. I'm just sayin'.
I see what you are saying and I do agree - yes they are people - yes they are trying to do a job. And most likely have been lied to and told how they can make all this money. They make a commission off the sales. I think the thing that upsets people the most is if I tell you I am not interested then accept that. Don't call me back the next day or a few hours later the same day.
Honestly I feel this type of job should be against the law. Esp since so many are now cell phones and it costs that person minutes, thus costs them money for a spam call.
And most times these type calls are trying to scam you so I don't feel too bad about how people treat them. They treat people bad themselves. I have been cursed and harassed when I said no to making a purchase from someone who called me on the phone. I think it was selling magazine scripts. I think most people these days (kind of like trying to do surveys as a full time job) are looking for a get rich quick scheme. A way to make money while putting forth as little effort as possible. I usually do not answer the phone if it is a number I do not recognize. Even local numbers, if it is important they can leave a message. So many numbers are spoofed it likely is still a spam call. Businesses I deal with I have as a contact in my phone so it shows up their name.