Yes, that's true. People often say to listen but don't actively listen to others, so there can be no true active listening. Also, active listening has a lot to do with attention and being fully present, giving undivided attention. In a world where many have the attention span of a goldfish, it's not surprising there is a lack of active listening skills. I believe it is a skill that can be learnt and practiced.

I think though it's important to differentiate between genuine situations and that of those who just simply don't want to listen, or too selfish to hear what someone has to say, don't care, not interested etc. Maybe not all of these things together but there are many other reasons why people don't want to hear others. Maybe as a form of manipulation, even gaslighting, so if they genuinely listen they would have to care and be accountable to others. I know I've come across people who haven't listened to a single word I said and later even denied very important things. I find it very disturbing and it's hard to know how to react in such situations. Should I blame myself or think I'm loosing my mind and didn't really tell someone something they allege I never told them (ironically these same people are very quick to accuse and allege falsehoods). We live in a world where this is a lot more common than one thinks.