tolerance and respect essay

Tolerance is more than putting up with things – it’s a moral virtue

Honarary Research Fellow in Psychology , Australian Catholic University

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Rivka T. Witenberg received funding from Large ARC SPIRT Grant; Department of Psychology Research Support Scheme, University of Melbourne and Australian Catholic University; Centre for Education for Human Values and Tolerance, Bar Ilan University, Tel Aviv, Israel; The University of Melbourne Collaborative research Grant.

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We hear a lot about tolerance these days.

Tolerance is a moral virtue best placed within the moral domain – but unfortunately it is often confounded with prejudice. Much of the psychological research about tolerance generally and about the development of children’s understanding of tolerance of others who are different from them has been examined through research about prejudice – and not through the moral domain. The assumption made is that absence of prejudice by default means a person is tolerant.

Prejudice and tolerance are actually theoretically different concepts – and not the opposite of each other. In fact, they coexist in most of us.

Tolerance is difficult to define, which may have led to limiting the study of tolerance in psychology in favour of studying prejudice. But, unlike prejudice, tolerance can be grounded in the moral domain which offers a positive approach to examining relationships between groups of people who are different from each other.

Based on its Latin origin, tolerance, or toleration as philosophers often refer to it, is most commonly viewed negatively as “putting up with” something we dislike or even hate. If a person is prepared to “put up with” something – along the lines of, I do not like the colour of your skin but I will still serve you not to lose your custom – that person is someone who does not discriminate but remains intolerant in thoughts and beliefs.

Besides, who wants to be tolerated or be “put up with”?

At the same time tolerance cannot be indiscriminate. Indiscriminate acceptance in its most extreme form could lead to recognition of questionable practice and human rights violations – for instance, child marriages and neo-Nazi propaganda.

Tolerance as a moral virtue

An alternative way for us to think of tolerance is to place it within the moral domain and recognise that it is what it is, a moral virtue.

Many recent philosophers have linked tolerance with respect, equality and liberty. Those such as Michael Dusche , John Rawls and Michael Walzer among others, argue that we should regard tolerance as a positive civic and moral duty between individuals, irrespective of colour, creed or culture.

In other words, it is a moral obligation or duty which involves respect for the individual as well as mutual respect and consideration between people. Tolerance between people makes it possible for conflicting claims of beliefs, values and ideas to coexistence as long as they fit within acceptable moral values.

So while different marriage practices fit in within acceptable moral values, sexual abuse of children is immoral and cannot be tolerated. I believe tolerance is an essential component in social unity and a remedy to intolerance and prejudice.

The idea that tolerance is a moral duty had been acknowledged by earlier civil libertarians, such as John Locke, Baruch Spinoza, John Stuart Mill and others. They argue that tolerant people value the individual, his or her independence and freedom of choice.

When tolerance is placed within the moral domain relating to fairness, justice and respect and avoiding causing harm to others, it can only be viewed as a positive moral virtue.

Psychological research supports the idea that tolerance is better placed within the moral domain. My own research with my students shows the best indicators and predictors of tolerance to human diversity are fairness and empathy.

Fairness and empathy are also very closely connected to moral development and reasoning. They are fundamental to any coherent moral philosophy.

Empathy and morality

Psychologists such as Johnathan Haidt believe empathy is the most important motivator for moral behaviour. Others such as Martin Hoffman argue empathy is a motivator of prosocial and altruistic or unselfish behaviour.

Empathic people are sensitive to the thoughts, feelings and experiences of others. They are able to place themselves in someone else’s shoes or understand how it would feel to be treated badly. Placing oneself in someone else’s shoes is the essence of tolerance.

My research shows that people of all ages including children have a strong sense of fairness and empathy towards others different from them in colour, creed or culture. They reject prejudice and intolerance between 70% and 80% of the time affirming tolerance based on fairness and empathy.

Moral values such as fairness, justice, empathy, tolerance and respect are shared, if not universal, values relevant to dealing with human diversity

Tolerance examined as separate concept could have unique implications for education and social policy. Education aimed at promoting a harmonious society could do well to focus more on the relationship between morality and tolerance. Grounding tolerance in theories of morality allows for an alternative educational approach to promote harmonious intergroup relationships.

Part of this education would involve developing a strong sense of fairness and justice and the ability to empathise with the plight of others who are different in racial characteristics, ethnicity or nationality.

This article is part of a series on public morality in 21st-century Australia.

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500 Words on Respect: Importance for Others

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Published: Mar 25, 2024

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15 Tolerance Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Tolerance is the ability to accept and live with others for who they are. There are many things in life where people vary, and our acceptance of this diversity in life is vital to living together on a globalized planet.

For example, understanding and accepting the varying opinions in society about religion or politics (even when you disagree) is tolerance.

Increasingly, the idea of tolerance is seen as not enough: to tolerate means to grin and bear it, even if you don’t like it. Instead, we’re moving toward acceptance , a term that has less negative connotations.

Below are some examples of tolerance that you can apply in your life beginning today!

Tolerance Examples

1. accepting people’s traditions and religions.

People come from different religions, and they worship their god in their own way. These belief systems and traditions may seem strange or even outright wrong to you, but then you must understand that as long as the people are not harming others, they have a right to exercise their religion.

An example of intolerance in this case is a person confronting somebody who wears a hijab. The intolerant person being intolerant the Muslim because he or she feels affronted by a religion they don’t understand.

A tolerant person, on the other hand, would know that a person’s value and humanity goes beyond their religion. They come from a different perspective, and their choice to wear a certain religious outfit is their choice to make, not yours.

2. Accepting LGBTQI+ People

People are attracted to different types of people, and there is a wide spectrum of gender. Some people may look strange to you, but as a tolerant person, you would say that it’s okay for people to be different to you.

People who do not identify in the same way as their assigned gender at birth exist in this world and have just as much a right to be a part of our society anyone else. As we live in a diverse society, tolerance is required. This simply means treating them with equality and dignity even if you are not a part of their community.

3. Accepting People’s Political Stances

Politics today is divisive, especially in countries where there is democracy. Voters from different political camps seem to look at one another with disdain.

A tolerant and mature person may come to respect that intelligent people come to different conclusions about politics. (And, even if someone’s position seems unintelligent to you, it’s their right to hold that view!).

It is sad that some friendships and family relationships had to end because of political disagreements, but it’s a reflection of the division that has entered our civil society in recent decades.

4. Yimbyism

Yimby means “Yes in my back yard”. It’s the response to nimbyism (not in my backyard).

A nimby is a upper middle-class person who opposes affordable housing or racial diversity in their neighborhood. They’re often progressives who claim to be tolerant, but don’t want to actually share a community with people who aren’t wealthy like them.

Yimbyism is the response. It’s people who say they want a more diverse neighborhood (in terms of both class and race). They support affordable housing initiatives in their neighborhoods.

5. Inclusion of sub-cultural groups

Historically, moral panics have occurred when sub-cultural groups have become distrusted for the way they look or behave.

For example, in the UK in the 1970s, there was widespread moral panic about rock and punk music. Many parents worried that it would ‘corrupt’ the youth.

Today, the idea that The Ramones or The Who are the cause of any social problems seems laughable. But when new subcultures come on the scene, they’re often met with distrust and disdain by the establishment. This, of course, happened previously with Elvis and 1950s rock as well.

6. Tolerating dress codes

Earlier, I gave the example of tolerance of hijabs in the West as a sign of a tolerant society.

Some nations like France and provinces like Quebec have made moves to outlaw them. It’s arguable that this reveals a lack of tolerance . Quebec, in particular, has used the argument that the hijab is against liberal values, meaning that this topic is contestable and can be seen from multiple perspectives.

But there’s also the matter of more conservative societies accepting women in bikinis. If you walk around Aech in Indonesia, for example, women will be expected to cover up. Liberal women may find this offensive, too, so there are two sides of this same coin of tolerating others!

7. Integrated schools

In the United States, many schools remained separated by race right up into the 1950s and 60s. The integration of schools was a sign of increasing tolerance in American society.

Like many civil right, this did not come without a fight. Many people – black and white – protested and advocated hard for integration of schools, arguing that if children grew up together, then there would be greater trust, respect, and tolerance between the different ethnic and racial groups in society.

8. Accepting people you don’t get along with in the workplace

One of the most common times when we have to exercise tolerance is when we have to put up with a disagreeable colleague at work.

Tolerance may mean you need to accept when your colleague goes on a long diatribe in a meeting on a topic you don’t find relevant or useful. It may also mean in a university project that you need to find a way to include the perspectives of group members who you disagree with.

9. Free Speech

Free speech is a fundamental linchpin of a tolerant society. If we look to dictatorships around the world, one of the first things those societies lose is their freedom to speak out against the establishment.

Free speech means tolerating other people’s rights to say what they want, even if you don’t like it. It means allowing people to share tweets that you think are uncomfortable, letting people wear offensive clothing, and make jokes that might offend.

Today, there is a lot of debate about where to draw the line for free speech. Speech can offend and even cause people a lot of anguish. But lack of free speech also leads to the downfall of democracy.

10. Accepting the Right to Live the Way you Want

People have rights. For example, people have a right to food, privacy, security, shelter, etc. They have a right to be happy and live their lives decently.

Some intolerant people do not seem to understand the basic tenets of human rights. For example, an intolerant individual may deny someone the right to express his culture. The right thing to do is to respect an individual’s right to choose and right to live, provided that this exercise of rights does not violate the law.

11. Accepting People’s Ethnicity

Many countries today have matured in terms of respecting ethnic diversity. Societies are increasingly multicultural and as a result tolerance is increasingly required.

Tolerance of ethnicity means that you are not prejudicial about somebody simply because of the color of their skin or their family background. The same thing goes with stereotyping—one should not assume that just because someone comes from a certain ethnicity that they will hold certain beliefs or be a threat to anyone.

12. Accepting People’s Behaviors

This type of tolerance refers to exercising patience when people do something that bothers you. For example, a neighbor who has a temple in their backyard.

Tolerance in this situation means accepting that they can do what they want in their backyard so long as it isn’t rude or tangibly disruptive.

Of course, if people are partying almost every day, you also have the right to complain. In another case, some families may have children, and the children can make noise as they play. Yelling at these kids may be interpreted as intolerant.

13. Accepting the Poor and Downtrodden

Some people are poor and there is even sadly an underclass of people who are homeless, dirty, or smelly. We may cross paths with these people in public.

Intolerance of this situation means you dislike themand you do not want to see them around. You want them gone from your community as soon as possible!

On some occasions, you are within your rights to complain, especially if they are sleeping in front of your restaurant. However, getting disgusted and offended at the mere sight of someone who belongs to a different social class or because they are homeless and downtrodden is intolerant.

14. Accommodating for the Disabled

While in the past, society was generally ignorant of the disabled, today, society attempts to make reasonable accommodations for them. This is a reflection of increasing acceptance of difference.

For example, it can take a person with a disability sometime to walk up the stairs. In this case, you must be tolerant, which means you must exercise patience and wait behind that person.

The same thing goes with people who are seemingly slow mentally—you need to practice tolerance if they are taking a while to order or complete a transaction.

15. Accepting the Preferences of Others

Not all people like the same thing that you do. They may like rap music you, and you like rock. They may like fantasy novels, but you like dark humor.

An intolerant person may point out that the choice of the other person is cheap or unintelligent. This, of course, causes hurt to the others who hear it. In reality, nobody is correct as far as artistic preferences are concerned. The same thing goes for fashion choices.

See More: Examples of Preferences

16. Accepting Personality Differences

People have different personalities. People have different quirks, choices, humor, and ideals in life.

Tolerance of someone’s personality means not pushing or rubbing off somebody just because they are different from you. People must learn to accept their uniqueness, like the way he laughs, talks, smiles, etc. Without this level of tolerance, you will only cause unnecessary agitation among your group.

Tolerance is what makes a society peaceful. Without it, a given society that has a mixture of different people will be in a never-ending conflict.

Tolerance is something that schools, churches, and parents must teach their children. Intolerance must be nipped in the bud as soon as possible. Otherwise, children will grow up unreasonably hostile to others.

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109 Tolerance Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Tolerance is an essential quality that is needed in today's diverse and interconnected world. It is the ability to accept and respect the differences in others, whether they are based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. Tolerance is crucial for promoting peace, harmony, and understanding among individuals and communities.

To help you explore the concept of tolerance further, here are 109 tolerance essay topic ideas and examples that you can use for inspiration:

• The importance of tolerance in a multicultural society
• How can we promote tolerance in schools?
• Tolerance and diversity in the workplace
• The role of tolerance in building peaceful communities
• Tolerance and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals
• Tolerance towards religious beliefs and practices
• How can we overcome intolerance and discrimination?
• Tolerance and empathy: understanding others' perspectives
• Tolerance and social justice
• The impact of intolerance on mental health
• Tolerance and forgiveness
• Tolerance and political polarization
• The role of education in promoting tolerance
• Tolerance and freedom of speech
• Tolerance towards individuals with disabilities
• Tolerance and social media
• Tolerance and economic inequality
• Tolerance and human rights
• Tolerance and the refugee crisis
• Tolerance and the criminal justice system
• Tolerance and interfaith dialogue
• Tolerance and environmental activism
• Tolerance and public health
• Tolerance and globalization
• Tolerance and gender equality
• Tolerance and indigenous rights
• Tolerance and the arts
• Tolerance and sportsmanship
• Tolerance and cultural appropriation
• Tolerance and allyship
• Tolerance and mental health stigma
• Tolerance and online harassment
• Tolerance and cyberbullying
• Tolerance and political correctness
• Tolerance and ethical consumption
• Tolerance and climate change denial
• Tolerance and animal rights
• Tolerance and technology
• Tolerance and artificial intelligence
• Tolerance and bioethics
• Tolerance and medical ethics
• Tolerance and social media influencers
• Tolerance and cancel culture

These are just a few examples of the many topics that you can explore when writing about tolerance. Whether you choose to focus on a specific aspect of tolerance or take a more general approach, there are countless opportunities to delve into this important concept and its implications for society. By discussing and promoting tolerance, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and understanding world for all.

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113 Respect Essay Titles & Prompts

If you are here, you probably need to write a respect essay. It is a very exciting topic for students of all levels. There are many good respect topics to write about: respect of people, respect of laws, military respect, respect and responsibility, etc. Check the complete list of respect essay titles below

🏆 Best Respect Topic Ideas & Essay Examples

⭐ simple & easy respect essay titles, 📌 most interesting respect topics to write about, 👍 good respect essay titles for students, ❓ questions about respect.

Respect is a term known to everyone since early years. But what it really means to respect? It is essential to separate this word from politeness, love, or other feelings. In simple terms, resect can be defined as a tribute honor and considerations of someone’s emotions, wills, rights, and goals.

In a respect essay, you can discuss mutual respect, forms of respect in different cultures, and other issues. We recommend you first define why it is important to respect each other. Having this question answered, it will be easier to analyze the role of respect in particular situations.

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• Feminism and Respect for Culture A crucial gender aspect that continues to trouble the unity of the people across the world is gender bias, which seems to encourage the formation of the feminist campaigns.
• Jacques Louis David’s Art with Respect to Question of Gender The most “sound” in the context of “femininity” and “masculinity” are the pictures The Oath of the Horatii, The Death of Socrates and The Lictors Returning to Brutus the Bodies of His Songs and The […]
• Respect and Self-Respect: Impact on Interpersonal Relationships and Personal Identity It is fundamental to human nature to want to be heard and listened to.indicates that when you listen to what other people say, you show them respect at the basic level.
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• Business Obligations With Respect to Environment The analysis focuses on the ethical concerns faced by Virgin Blue Holdings which is one of the major airline company’s in Australia, and how the management deals with these issues within the environmental setup.
• Respect, Honor, & Love Children for Their Parents They should never disrespect them or talk to them rudely and calmly listen to whatever they say. Children must always accompany their parents to the temples and worship wholeheartedly in front of the Gods.
• Pharmacy: Advocacy, Integrity, and Respect A pharmacist that does not have integrity would easily give in and sell the drugs to a relative or a friend.
• Discussion: Law Enforcement and Respect In the case study, the situation highlights a situation in which Arnold, a homeless drug user, refuses to leave the entrance of a building in a low-income apartment complex without causing disturbances.
• Trust and Respect: “The Effects of Hazing and Sexual Harassment” First, it destroys the public image of the U.S.military and leads to the situation when people associate military service with abuse, humiliation, and the inability to serve their country with dignity.
• Fostering Dignity and Respect in Caring To mitigate this situation, the management of the home care organization should strive to make sure that a patient’s decision is respected and valued.
• Diversity, Inclusion, and Respect for Human Dignity in America The purpose of this paper is to evaluate cultural acceptance in the US in connection to respect and provide means of increasing respect for other cultures.
• Respect and Integrity of Company Employees On this note, economy of one’s country or state is bound to grow since new ideas will bring in more innovations that are key to the economic stability. The value of respect is strong and […]
• No Respect Given to Military Family The purpose of this essay is to study the impact of the problem of insufficient respect for military families on society and individuals and to find solutions to this issue.
• Helping Business Behave Morally With Respect to Consumer Safety The organization should consider factors that affect marketability of the product, such as the costs involved, any warranties, which may be implied on the product and the quality of the product as customers are concerned […]
• Free Speech and Mutual Respect on Campus In case the notion of free speech on campus will be misinterpreted and evil ones will use their free speech policy to hurt others, what sad consequences this will lead to?
• Importance of Bible With Respect to Christian Ministry It also mentions the roles and responsibilities of Christian ministry in the society and in the church, basic requirements to become as a minister etc in the base of New Testament.
• Social Factors in the US History: Respect for Human Rights, Racial Equality, and Religious Freedom The very first years of the existence of the country were marked by the initiatives of people to provide as much freedom in all aspects of social life as possible.
• Why Comedy Gets No Respect The Golden Globe awards, on the other hand, divide the Best Motion Picture category into the sub-categories of drama and musical/comedy, and in that second category, many of the great comedies produced in the past […]
• Earning Respect From Employess and Superiors The manager can do this by earning the respect of both his staff and superiors. Moreover, a manager can earn respect from his staff if he listens and takes interest in the things happening to […]
• Partner Healthcare System INC Case: Competing Interests and Respect After the lapse of a certain period of time, in 1994, the Boards of BWH and MGH accorded their approval to designate the MGH/Brigham Health Care System Inc as to the sole member of the […]
• Concept in Understanding Contemporary Policy Processes in Europe with Respect to Government and Policies The emergence of MLG where on the one hand has created the need for collective decision making over complex problems which leads to a loss of control for nation-states, on the other have brought the […]
• Sweatshops and Respect for Persons One of the identified flaws in the logic of the authors is that while they focus on the ethical issues surrounding sweatshops and the responsibility of multinational corporations in providing decent working conditions, Arnold and […]
• Marketing Research with Respect to Modern Office Suppliers In this paper, the SWOT analysis of Staples and Amazon will be carried out as Modern Office Suppliers is planning to operate in the manner that these two companies operate.
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• Saint Leo’s Core Value of Respect and Socio-Cultural Impacts on Tourism These factors result to changes in different aspects of the society such as religion, cultural practices and other influential factors like where the society emulate the aspects of the tourists.
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• When Security Gets No Respect
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• The Lack of Respect for Army in the United States
• The Importance of the Government’s Respect of the Citizens for a Successful Democratic Nation
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• How Can Teachers Respect History in the Classroom?
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• How Do You Think Respect Affects Your Community, the World?
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• What Does It Feel Like to Be Respected?
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Essay on Tolerance

Introduction to Tolerance

In a diverse world, tolerance fosters harmony and understanding among individuals of varying backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. As societies become increasingly interconnected, the need to embrace differences becomes more pronounced. Tolerance is passive acceptance and an active commitment to respect and engage with diverse ideas and identities. This essay explores the historical evolution of tolerance, its essence, and the manifold benefits it bestows upon society. In facing the challenges posed by intolerance, it emphasizes the pivotal role of leadership and outlines strategies to promote a culture of tolerance for a more inclusive and progressive future.

Historical Perspectives on Tolerance

Historical perspectives on tolerance reveal a nuanced evolution of attitudes towards diversity, dissent, and coexistence across different civilizations and epochs. Here’s a breakdown of key historical moments and insights:

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• Ancient Civilizations : Tolerance fluctuated according to political and cultural situations in ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Mesopotamia. While some societies exhibited relative openness to diverse beliefs and practices, others imposed strict religious or ideological conformity. For instance, ancient Athens practiced a form of democratic tolerance where citizens could freely express their views in public forums, albeit with limitations.
• Medieval Europe : The Middle Ages were marked by religious intolerance and persecution, particularly during the Inquisition and Crusades. The dominant role of the Catholic Church led to the suppression of dissenting beliefs and the persecution of religious minorities, such as Jews, Muslims, and heretics. However, pockets of tolerance emerged in certain Islamic caliphates, where diverse religious and cultural communities coexisted under the principles of dhimma, offering protection and rights to non-Muslims.
• The Renaissance and Enlightenment : The Renaissance witnessed a revival of classical learning and a reevaluation of traditional beliefs, laying the groundwork for the Enlightenment era. Enlightenment thinkers, such as Voltaire, John Locke, and Montesquieu, advocated for religious tolerance, freedom of thought, and the separation of church and state. Their ideas challenged the authority of established institutions and paved the way for the emergence of secular democracies grounded in principles of individual rights and rational inquiry.
• Colonialism and Imperialism : The age of colonialism and imperialism saw the imposition of Western values and norms upon indigenous cultures, often accompanied by intolerance and cultural suppression. European powers justified their dominance through notions of racial superiority and the civilizing mission, leading to the marginalization and subjugation of native populations worldwide.
• Modern Era and Globalization : The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed progress and setbacks in promoting tolerance. Prominent social movements that have pushed for equality and inclusion include women’s rights, LGBTQ+, and civil rights movements. These movements have also addressed institutional prejudice. However, globalization has also heightened tensions and conflicts stemming from cultural, religious, and ideological differences, leading to instances of xenophobia, nationalism, and extremism.

The Essence of Tolerance

The essence of tolerance lies in its capacity to foster mutual respect, understanding, and coexistence among individuals and communities with diverse beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives. At its core, tolerance embodies several fundamental principles:

• Respect for Differences : Tolerance entails recognizing and accepting the legitimacy of viewpoints, lifestyles, and identities that may differ from one’s own. It involves acknowledging every individual’s inherent dignity and worth, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
• Open-mindedness and Acceptance : Tolerance requires an open-minded approach to engaging with others, valuing dialogue and exchange over prejudice and judgment. It encourages individuals to embrace the richness of diversity and cultivate empathy and compassion towards those whose experiences and worldviews may differ.
• Promotion of Dialogue and Understanding : Tolerance fosters constructive dialogue and engagement across cultural, ideological, and interpersonal divides. By promoting civil discourse and attentive listening, people can overcome differences, discover points of agreement, and form deep connections based on similar goals and values.
• Empowerment of Individual Rights : Tolerance upholds the principles of individual liberty, autonomy, and equality before the law. It recognizes and defends the rights of individuals to express themselves freely, practice their beliefs, and participate fully in their communities’ social, political, and economic lives without fear of discrimination or reprisal.
• Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence : Tolerance is essential for maintaining peace, stability, and social cohesion in diverse societies. Building inclusive communities where all members can prosper and positively impact the common good is made possible by fostering mutual respect and understanding.
• Resistance to Intolerance and Injustice : Tolerance requires vigilance against intolerance, prejudice, and oppression in all its forms. It calls upon individuals and institutions to actively challenge discriminatory attitudes and practices, confront systemic inequalities, and advocate for justice, equality, and human rights for all.

Tolerance in the Workplace

Imagine a scenario where a new project team is formed within a company to tackle a complex business challenge. The team comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, genders, and professional experiences. As they begin their work, they encounter various situations that test their ability to practice tolerance in the workplace:

1. Cultural Differences

• Challenges: During team meetings, members notice that communication styles vary significantly among team members. Some individuals prefer direct and assertive communication, while others tend to be more reserved and indirect in expressing their opinions. As a result, misunderstandings arise, and some team members feel unheard or marginalized.
• Response: The team leader facilitates a discussion about communication preferences and cultural differences. Through open dialogue, team members gain insight into each other’s communication styles and learn to adapt their approach to accommodate diverse perspectives. The team establishes norms for inclusive communication, such as active listening, seeking clarification, and respecting different communication styles.

2. Gender Dynamics

• Challenges: In team discussions, female team members notice that their contributions are sometimes overlooked or attributed to male colleagues. They feel frustrated by the subtle biases and microaggressions they experience, which undermine their confidence and credibility within the team.
• Response: The team leader addresses gender dynamics and unconscious biases through awareness-raising sessions and training on diversity and inclusion. The group pledges to establish a welcoming atmosphere where all opinions, regardless of gender, are respected equally. Male allies amplify female voices, challenge assumptions, and promote gender-balanced participation in discussions and decision-making processes.

3. Conflict Resolution

• Challenges: As the project progresses, disagreements emerge regarding the best approach to solving a particular problem. Team members express strong opinions based on their professional expertise and experiences, leading to tension and conflict.
• Response: The team employs constructive conflict resolution strategies, such as active listening, perspective-taking, and finding common ground. They recognize that diversity of thought is a strength and that differing opinions can lead to more innovative solutions. By fostering a respectful debate and collaboration culture, the team navigates conflicts productively and arrives at consensus-driven decisions incorporating diverse viewpoints.

4. Accommodating Individual Needs

• Challenges: One team member discloses a disability that requires specific accommodations to fully participate in team activities, such as accessible meeting spaces, assistive technology, or flexible work arrangements. The team recognizes the importance of accommodating individual needs to ensure equal opportunities and accessibility for all members.
• Response: The team collaborates with HR and relevant stakeholders to implement reasonable accommodations that address the individual’s needs while upholding productivity and inclusivity. Regardless of cognitive or physical limitations, they place a high value on fostering an open atmosphere where everyone feels free to share their skills and viewpoints.

Tolerance in Society

Imagine a neighborhood undergoing demographic changes, with new residents from different cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. As the community diversifies, opportunities and challenges emerge that test the residents’ ability to practice tolerance and promote inclusivity:

1. Cultural Celebrations

• Challenges: Different groups within the neighborhood observe various cultural festivals and traditions throughout the year. While some residents enthusiastically participate in these events, others may feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar with the customs and practices of their neighbors.
• Response: The neighborhood association organizes multicultural events and workshops to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Residents are encouraged to share their traditions and learn from one another, fostering a sense of unity and connection across diverse cultural backgrounds.

2. Language Barriers

• Challenges: Language differences pose communication challenges among residents of different languages or dialects. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations may arise, leading to social isolation and cultural divides within the community.
• Response: The neighborhood establishes language exchange programs and conversation circles where residents can practice language skills and learn from each other. Bilingual signage and translation services are provided for community announcements and public spaces, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder communication and inclusivity.

3. Religious Diversity

Challenges: The neighborhood comprises individuals from various religious faiths, each with its practices, rituals, and beliefs. Interfaith dialogue and cooperation are essential for promoting mutual respect and understanding among religious communities.

Response: Organizers arrange interfaith gatherings, prayer services, and discussions to foster dialogue and build bridges of understanding between different religious groups. Residents participate in community service projects and charitable initiatives that transcend religious boundaries, emphasizing shared values of compassion, empathy, and social justice.

4. Addressing Prejudice and Discrimination

• Challenges: Despite efforts to promote tolerance, prejudice, discrimination, and bigotry may still occur within the neighborhood. Hate speech, stereotypes, and negative attitudes toward marginalized groups undermine efforts to create an inclusive and equitable community.
• Response: The neighborhood adopts zero-tolerance policies against discrimination and hate crimes, working closely with local law enforcement, civil rights organizations, and community leaders to address instances of intolerance and promote accountability. Authorities implement educational campaigns and diversity training programs to challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and empower residents to stand up against injustice and intolerance.

5. Community Engagement

• Challenges: Despite efforts to promote tolerance, isolated incidents of hate speech or discrimination occur within the community, causing fear and division among residents.
• Response: Community organizations and local leaders collaborate to address hate speech and discrimination through awareness campaigns, solidarity rallies, and diversity training initiatives. They collaborate closely with law enforcement organizations to ensure that instances of prejudice are quickly reported and handled. By standing together against intolerance, community members reaffirm their commitment to building a society where they celebrate diversity and ensure everyone feels safe and respected.

Challenges to Tolerance

Challenges to tolerance abound in various forms, posing significant barriers to fostering inclusive and harmonious societies. Here are some key challenges:

• Prejudice and Stereotypes : Deep-seated prejudices and stereotypes based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors contribute to intolerance and discrimination. These biases can lead to unfair treatment, social exclusion, and systemic inequalities, perpetuating cycles of division and animosity within communities.
• Cultural and Religious Conflicts : Differences in cultural practices, religious beliefs, and value systems often fuel tensions and conflicts among individuals and communities. Misunderstandings and mistrust between groups can escalate into violence, sectarianism, and intergroup strife, undermining efforts to promote dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect.
• Polarization and Tribalism : Increasing societal polarization and tribalism exacerbate ideological, political, and identity divisions. Echo chambers in media and social networks amplify extremist views and foster “us vs. them” mentalities, eroding empathy and understanding between divergent groups and hindering constructive dialogue and compromise.
• Economic Inequality : Economic disparities and socio-economic marginalization exacerbate social tensions and undermine social cohesion. Persistent poverty and lack of access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities disproportionately affect marginalized communities, fueling resentment, alienation, and distrust towards societal institutions and mainstream society.
• Xenophobia and Nationalism : Rising xenophobia and nationalism stoke fear and hostility towards immigrants, refugees, and minority groups perceived as threats to national identity or economic security. Anti-immigrant rhetoric and discriminatory policies further marginalize vulnerable populations and erode the principles of equality and human rights.
• Lack of Education and Awareness : Ignorance and lack of education about diversity, multiculturalism, and human rights perpetuate intolerance and bigotry. Inadequate awareness of historical injustices, cultural diversity , and the experiences of marginalized groups hinders empathy, solidarity, and collective action to address systemic discrimination and inequality.
• Political Authoritarianism : Authoritarian regimes and illiberal democracies often suppress dissent, curtail freedom of speech, and target minority groups, stifling pluralism and dissent. Repressive policies, censorship, and state-sponsored discrimination undermine the rule of law, democratic principles, and fundamental freedoms, exacerbating social tensions and undermining trust in democratic institutions.

Strategies for Cultivating Tolerance

Cultivating tolerance requires a multifaceted approach encompassing education, dialogue, community engagement, policy reforms, and individual action. Here are strategies to foster tolerance and promote inclusivity:

• Education and Awareness : Implement comprehensive education programs at all levels, including schools, universities, workplaces, and community centers, to promote understanding of diversity, multiculturalism, and human rights. Curriculum integration, workshops, and training sessions can raise awareness about tolerance, empathy, and respect for different cultures, religions, and perspectives.
• Promotion of Intercultural Dialogue : Facilitate platforms for open and respectful dialogue among diverse groups to promote mutual understanding, empathy, and cooperation. Interfaith dialogues, cultural exchange programs, and community forums allow individuals to share experiences, perspectives, and values, fostering connections and building bridges across divides.
• Legislative and Policy Reforms : Advocate for legislation and policies that uphold equality, non-discrimination, and social justice principles. Ensure that legal frameworks protect the rights of marginalized groups and provide avenues for redress against discrimination, hate speech, and hate crimes. Strengthen enforcement mechanisms and promote accountability for perpetrators of intolerance and bigotry.
• Media Literacy and Responsible Reporting : Promote media literacy initiatives that empower individuals to critically evaluate information, challenge stereotypes, and counter misinformation and hate speech. Encourage responsible reporting and ethical journalism practices prioritizing accuracy, fairness, and inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices and perspectives in the media landscape.
• Community Empowerment and Grassroots Activism : Support community-led initiatives and grassroots organizations that promote tolerance, social cohesion, and intergroup solidarity. Foster partnerships between civil society groups, religious leaders, educators, and local authorities to address systemic inequalities, promote social inclusion and amplify marginalized voices.
• Promotion of Diversity in Leadership : Foster diversity and inclusion in leadership positions across sectors, including government, business, academia, and civil society. Encourage representation of women, minorities, and underrepresented groups in decision-making processes and leadership roles to ensure diverse perspectives are reflected in policies, programs, and initiatives.
• Promotion of Human Rights and Social Justice : Advocate for human rights , social justice , and equality for all individuals and communities, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. Support initiatives that address root causes of inequality, poverty, and discrimination and promote access to education, healthcare, housing, and economic opportunities for marginalized populations.
• Individual Commitment and Allyship : Encourage individuals to examine their own biases, challenge stereotypes, and actively practice tolerance, empathy, and respect in their daily interactions. Foster a culture of allyship where individuals stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, speak out against injustice, and work towards building inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and respected.

Case Studies

Case studies offer valuable insights into real-world manifestations of tolerance and the impact of intolerance. Here are a few illustrative examples:

• South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) : The TRC, established in post-apartheid South Africa, is a notable example of tolerance and reconciliation in the face of historical injustices. Through public hearings and testimonies, victims and perpetrators of apartheid-era atrocities confronted the truth, acknowledged past wrongs, and sought forgiveness. The TRC facilitated healing, promoted understanding, and laid the groundwork for national unity and social cohesion in South Africa’s diverse society.
• The European Union (EU) Integration Project : The EU exemplifies a commitment to tolerance and cooperation among diverse nations and peoples. Through economic integration, political cooperation, and cultural exchange, the EU has promoted peace, stability, and prosperity across the continent. Despite historical conflicts and cultural differences, EU member states have forged common values, democratic principles, and shared responsibilities, demonstrating the transformative power of tolerance and collaboration in overcoming divisions and building a more united Europe.
• The Marriage Equality Movement : The movement for marriage equality represents a triumph of tolerance and social justice for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities worldwide. Through advocacy, activism, and legal challenges, proponents of marriage equality have challenged discriminatory laws and social attitudes, leading to landmark legal victories and cultural shifts. Legalizing same-sex unions in several nations demonstrates how opinions toward LGBTQ+ rights are changing and emphasizes how crucial love, equality, and tolerance are to building inclusive communities.
• The Refugee Crisis Response in Canada : Canada’s response to the Syrian refugee crisis offers a compelling example of tolerance and compassion. Through government-sponsored resettlement programs, community sponsorship initiatives, and grassroots efforts, Canada welcomed tens of thousands of Syrian refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. Canadian communities rallied to provide housing, support, and integration services, demonstrating solidarity with refugees and upholding Canada’s commitment to humanitarian values and multiculturalism.
• The Civil Rights Movement in the United States : In the face of institutional racism and injustice, the 1950s and 1960s Civil Rights Movement continues to stand as a historic model of bravery, resiliency, and tolerance. Through nonviolent resistance, grassroots organizing, and mass mobilization, civil rights activists challenged segregation, discrimination, and institutionalized racism in the United States. Significant laws, such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, were produced due to the movement, paving the way for social advancement and racial harmony while advancing African Americans’ rights to equality, justice, and civil liberties.

The Role of Leadership in Cultivating Tolerance

The role of leadership in cultivating tolerance is pivotal in shaping organizational cultures, fostering inclusive communities, and promoting social cohesion. Here’s how leaders can contribute to cultivating tolerance:

• Setting the Tone : Leaders use their words, deeds, and behaviors to set an example for inclusivity and tolerance inside their groups and communities. By championing diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values, leaders establish a culture that celebrates tolerance and does not tolerate discrimination.
• Leading by Example : Leaders model inclusive behaviors and demonstrate respect for diversity in their interactions with others. They actively listen to diverse perspectives, seek feedback from marginalized groups, and ensure that all voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes.
• Creating Safe Spaces : Leaders create safe and inclusive spaces where individuals feel empowered to express themselves authentically without fear of judgment or reprisal. They foster open environments where people can share their experiences, challenges, and concerns, fostering trust, empathy, and mutual understanding.
• Promoting Diversity in Leadership : Leaders promote diversity in leadership positions by actively recruiting, mentoring, and sponsoring individuals from underrepresented groups. They recognize and cultivate diverse talent, provide opportunities for professional growth and advancement, and ensure that leadership teams reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
• Facilitating Difficult Conversations : Leaders facilitate difficult conversations about race, ethnicity, religion, gender, and other sensitive topics in constructive and respectful ways. They create dialogue, education, and awareness-raising opportunities to address unconscious biases, stereotypes, and systemic inequalities undermining tolerance and inclusion.
• Providing Training and Development : Leaders invest in training and development programs that promote cultural competence, empathy, and inclusive leadership skills among employees and community members. They give people the information, abilities, and resources to negotiate opposing viewpoints, settle disputes, and forge connections despite differences.
• Addressing Bias and Discrimination : Leaders address bias and discrimination proactively by implementing policies, procedures, and accountability mechanisms to prevent and address instances of harassment, discrimination, and exclusion. They foster a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensure they treat all individuals with dignity, fairness, and respect.
• Celebrating Diversity : Leaders celebrate diversity and multiculturalism by recognizing and honoring the contributions of individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and identities. They organize cultural events, heritage celebrations, and diversity awards to showcase the richness of diversity and promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
• Advocating for Social Justice : Leaders use their influence and platforms to advocate for social justice, human rights, and equality for all individuals and communities. They collaborate with partners to develop policies and practices that support justice, equity, and dignity for all people, and they speak out against systematic injustices, oppression, and discrimination.

Tolerance is the cornerstone of harmonious societies, fostering understanding, acceptance, and unity amidst diversity. Embracing differences and respecting individual perspectives leads to enriched communities where dialogue prevails over discord. Tolerance dismantles the barriers of prejudice, bigotry, and discrimination, creating spaces where everyone values their unique contributions. As we navigate the complexities of our interconnected world, prioritizing tolerance becomes a moral imperative and a pragmatic choice for building resilient, inclusive societies. By cultivating a culture of tolerance, we pave the way for lasting peace, cooperation, and shared prosperity in our global community.

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Beyond Intractability

The Hyper-Polarization Challenge to the Conflict Resolution Field We invite you to participate in an online exploration of what those with conflict and peacebuilding expertise can do to help defend liberal democracies and encourage them live up to their ideals.

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By Sarah Peterson

Originally published in July 2003, Current Implications added by Heidi Burgess in December, 2019

Current Implications

When Sarah wrote this essay in 2003, social media existed, but it hadn't yet become popular or widespread.  Facebook and Twitter hadn't started yet (Facebook started in 2004, Twitter in 2006.)  More .... 

What is Tolerance?

Tolerance is the appreciation of diversity and the ability to live and let others live. It is the ability to exercise a fair and objective attitude towards those whose opinions, practices, religion, nationality, and so on differ from one's own.[1] As William Ury notes, "tolerance is not just agreeing with one another or remaining indifferent in the face of injustice, but rather showing respect for the essential humanity in every person."[2]

Intolerance is the failure to appreciate and respect the practices, opinions and beliefs of another group. For instance, there is a high degree of intolerance between Israeli Jews and Palestinians who are at odds over issues of identity , security , self-determination , statehood, the right of return for refugees, the status of Jerusalem and many other issues. The result is continuing intergroup conflict and violence .

Why Does Tolerance Matter?

At a post-9/11 conference on multiculturalism in the United States, participants asked, "How can we be tolerant of those who are intolerant of us?"[3] For many, tolerating intolerance is neither acceptable nor possible.

Though tolerance may seem an impossible exercise in certain situations -- as illustrated by Hobbes in the inset box on the right -- being tolerant, nonetheless, remains key to easing hostile tensions between groups and to helping communities move past intractable conflict. That is because tolerance is integral to different groups relating to one another in a respectful and understanding way. In cases where communities have been deeply entrenched in violent conflict, being tolerant helps the affected groups endure the pain of the past and resolve their differences. In Rwanda, the Hutus and the Tutsis have tolerated a reconciliation process , which has helped them to work through their anger and resentment towards one another.

The Origins of Intolerance

In situations where conditions are economically depressed and politically charged, groups and individuals may find it hard to tolerate those that are different from them or have caused them harm. In such cases, discrimination, dehumanization, repression, and violence may occur. This can be seen in the context of Kosovo, where Kosovar Alabanians, grappling with poverty and unemployment, needed a scapegoat, and supported an aggressive Serbian attack against neighboring Bosnian Muslim and Croatian neighbors.

The Consequences of Intolerance

Intolerance will drive groups apart, creating a sense of permanent separation between them. For example, though the laws of apartheid in South Africa were abolished nine years ago, there still exists a noticeable level of personal separation between black and white South Africans, as evidenced in studies on the levels of perceived social distance between the two groups.[4] This continued racial division perpetuates the problems of intergroup resentment and hostility.

How is Intolerance Perpetuated?

Between Individuals: In the absence of their own experiences, individuals base their impressions and opinions of one another on assumptions. These assumptions can be influenced by the positive or negative beliefs of those who are either closest or most influential in their lives, including parents or other family members, colleagues, educators, and/or role models. 

In the Media: Individual attitudes are influenced by the images of other groups in the media, and the press. For instance, many Serbian communities believed that the western media portrayed a negative image of the Serbian people during the NATO bombing in Kosovo and Serbia.[5] This de-humanization may have contributed to the West's willingness to bomb Serbia. However, there are studies that suggest media images may not influence individuals in all cases. For example, a study conducted on stereotypes discovered people of specific towns in southeastern Australia did not agree with the negative stereotypes of Muslims presented in the media.[6]

In Education: There exists school curriculum and educational literature that provide biased and/or negative historical accounts of world cultures. Education or schooling based on myths can demonize and dehumanize other cultures rather than promote cultural understanding and a tolerance for diversity and differences.

What Can Be Done to Deal with Intolerance?

To encourage tolerance, parties to a conflict and third parties must remind themselves and others that tolerating tolerance is preferable to tolerating intolerance. Following are some useful strategies that may be used as tools to promote tolerance.

Intergroup Contact: There is evidence that casual intergroup contact does not necessarily reduce intergroup tensions, and may in fact exacerbate existing animosities. However, through intimate intergroup contact, groups will base their opinions of one another on personal experiences, which can reduce prejudices . Intimate intergroup contact should be sustained over a week or longer in order for it to be effective.[7]

In Dialogue: To enhance communication between both sides, dialogue mechanisms such as dialogue groups or problem solving workshops  provide opportunities for both sides to express their needs and interests. In such cases, actors engaged in the workshops or similar forums feel their concerns have been heard and recognized. Restorative justice programs such as victim-offender mediation provide this kind of opportunity as well. For instance, through victim-offender mediation, victims can ask for an apology from the offender and the offender can make restitution and ask for forgiveness.[8]

What Individuals Can Do

Individuals should continually focus on being tolerant of others in their daily lives. This involves consciously challenging the stereotypes and assumptions that they typically encounter in making decisions about others and/or working with others either in a social or a professional environment.

What the Media Can Do

The media should use positive images to promote understanding and cultural sensitivity. The more groups and individuals are exposed to positive media messages about other cultures, the less they are likely to find faults with one another -- particularly those communities who have little access to the outside world and are susceptible to what the media tells them. See the section on stereotypes  to learn more about how the media perpetuate negative images of different groups.

What the Educational System Can Do

Educators are instrumental in promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence . For instance, schools that create a tolerant environment help young people respect and understand different cultures. In Israel, an Arab and Israeli community called Neve Shalom or Wahat Al-Salam ("Oasis of Peace") created a school designed to support inter-cultural understanding by providing children between the first and sixth grades the opportunity to learn and grow together in a tolerant environment.[9]

What Other Third Parties Can Do

Conflict transformation NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and other actors in the field of peacebuilding can offer mechanisms such as trainings to help parties to a conflict communicate better with one another. For instance, several organizations have launched a series of projects in Macedonia that aim to reduce tensions between the country's Albanian, Romani and Macedonian populations, including activities that promote democracy, ethnic tolerance, and respect for human rights.[10]

International organizations need to find ways to enshrine the principles of tolerance in policy. For instance, the United Nations has already created The Declaration of Moral Principles on Tolerance, adopted and signed in Paris by UNESCO's 185 member states on Nov. 16, 1995, which qualifies tolerance as a moral, political, and legal requirement for individuals, groups, and states.[11]

Governments also should aim to institutionalize policies of tolerance. For example, in South Africa, the Education Ministry has advocated the integration of a public school tolerance curriculum into the classroom; the curriculum promotes a holistic approach to learning . The United States government has recognized one week a year as international education week, encouraging schools, organizations, institutions, and individuals to engage in projects and exchanges to heighten global awareness of cultural differences.

The Diaspora community can also play an important role in promoting and sustaining tolerance. They can provide resources to ease tensions and affect institutional policies in a positive way. For example, Jewish, Irish, and Islamic communities have contributed to the peacebuilding effort within their places of origin from their places of residence in the United States. [12]

When Sarah wrote this essay in 2003, social media existed, but it hadn't yet become popular or widespread.  Facebook and Twitter hadn't started yet (Facebook started in 2004, Twitter in 2006.) 

In addition, while the conflict between the right and the left and the different races certainly existed in the United States, it was not nearly as escalated or polarized as it is now in 2019.  For those reasons (and others), the original version of this essay didn't discuss political or racial tolerance or intolerance in the United States.  Rather than re-writing the original essay, all of which is still valid, I have chosen to update it with these "Current Implications." 

In 2019, the intolerance between the Left and the Right in the United States has gotten extreme. Neither side is willing to accept the legitimacy of the values, beliefs, or actions of the other side, and they are not willing to tolerate those values, beliefs or actions whatsoever. That means, in essence, that they will not tolerate the people who hold those views, and are doing everything they can to disempower, delegitimize, and in some cases, dehumanize the other side.

Further, while intolerance is not new, efforts to spread and strengthen it have been greatly enhanced with the current day traditional media and social media environments: the proliferation of cable channels that allow narrowcasting to particular audiences, and Facebook and Twitter (among many others) that serve people only information that corresponds to (or even strengthens) their already biased views. The availability of such information channels both helps spread intolerance; it also makes the effects of that intolerance more harmful.

Intolerance and its correlaries (disempowerment, delegitimization, and dehumanization) are perhaps clearest on the right, as the right currently holds the U.S. presidency and controls the statehouses in many states.  This gives them more power to assert their views and disempower, delegitimize and dehumanize the other.  (Consider the growing restrictions on minority voting rights, the delegitimization of transgendered people and supporters, and the dehumanizing treatment of would-be immigrants at the southern border.) 

But the left is doing the same thing when it can.  By accusing the right of being "haters," the left delegitimizes the right's values and beliefs, many of which are not borne of animus, but rather a combination of bad information being spewed by fake news in social and regular media, and natural neurobiological tendencies which cause half of the population to be biologically more fearful, more reluctant to change, and more accepting of (and needing) a strong leader. 

Put together, such attitudes feed upon one another, causing an apparently never-ending escalation and polarization spiral of intolerance.  Efforts to build understanding and tolerance, just as described in the original article, are still much needed today both in the United States and across the world. 

The good news is that many such efforts exist.  The Bridge Alliance , for instance, is an organization of almost 100 member organizations which are working to bridge the right-left divide in the U.S.  While the Bridge Alliance doesn't use the term "tolerance" or "coexistence" in its framing " Four Principles ," they do call for U.S. leaders and the population to "work together" to meet our challenges.  "Working together" requires not only "tolerance for " and "coexistence with" the other side; it also requires respect for other people's views. That is something that many of the member organizations are trying to establish with red-blue dialogues, public fora, and other bridge-building activities.  We need much, much more of that now in 2019 if we are to be able to strengthen tolerance against the current intolerance onslaught.

One other thing we'd like to mention that was touched upon in the original article, but not explored much, is what can and should be done when the views or actions taken by the other side are so abhorent that they cannot and should not be tolerated? A subset of that question is one Sarah did pose above '"How can we be tolerant of those who are intolerant of us?"[3] For many, tolerating intolerance is neither acceptable nor possible." Sarah answers that by arguing that tolerance is beneficial--by implication, even in those situations. 

What she doesn't explicitly consider, however, is the context of the intolerance.  If one is considering the beliefs or behavior of another that doesn't affect anyone else--a personal decision to live in a particular way (such as following a particular religion for example), we would agree that tolerance is almost always beneficial, as it is more likely to lead to interpersonal trust and further understanding. 

However, if one is considering beliefs or actions of another that does affect other people--particularly actions that affect large numbers of people, then that is a different situation.  We do not tolerate policies that allow the widespread dissemination of fake news and allow foreign governments to manipulate our minds such that they can manipulate our elections.  That, in our minds is intolerable.  So too are actions that destroy the rule of law in this country; actions that threaten our democratic system.

But that doesn't mean that we should respond to intolerance in kind.  Rather, we would argue, one should respond to intolerance with respectful dissent--explaining why the intolerance is unfairly stereotyping an entire group of people; explaining why such stereotyping is both untrue and harmful; why a particular action is unacceptable because it threatens the integrity of our democratic system, explaining alternative ways of getting one's needs met. 

This can be done without attacking the people who are guilty of intolerance with direct personal attacks--calling them "haters," or shaming them for having voted a particular way.  That just hardens the other sides' intolerance. 

Still, reason-based arguments probably won't be accepted right away.  Much neuroscience research explains that emotions trump facts and that people won't change their minds when presented with alternative facts--they will just reject those facts.  But if people are presented with facts in the form of respectful discussion instead of personal attacks, that is both a factual and an emotional approach that can help de-escalate tensions and eventually allow for the development of tolerance.  Personal attacks on the intolerant will not do that.  So when Sarah asked whether one should tolerate intolerance, I would say "no, one should not." But that doesn't mean that you have to treat the intolerant person disrespectfully or "intolerantly."  Rather, model good, respectful behavior.  Model the behavior you would like them to adopt.  And use that to try to fight the intolerance, rather than simply "tolerating it." 

-- Heidi and Guy Burgess. December, 2019.

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[1] The American Heritage Dictionary (New York: Dell Publishing, 1994).

[2] William Ury, Getting To Peace (New York: The Penguin Group, 1999), 127.

[3] As identified by Serge Schmemann, a New York Times columnist noted in his piece of Dec. 29, 2002, in The New York Times entitled "The Burden of Tolerance in a World of Division" that tolerance is a burden rather than a blessing in today's society.

[4] Jannie Malan, "From Exclusive Aversion to Inclusive Coexistence," Short Paper, African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD), Conference on Coexistence Community Consultations, Durban, South Africa, January 2003, 6.

[5] As noted by Susan Sachs, a New York Times columnist in her piece of Dec. 16, 2001, in The New York Times entitled "In One Muslim Land, an Effort to Enforce Lessons of Tolerance."

[6] Amber Hague, "Attitudes of high school students and teachers towards Muslims and Islam in a southeaster Australian community," Intercultural Education 2 (2001): 185-196.

[7] Yehuda Amir, "Contact Hypothesis in Ethnic Relations," in Weiner, Eugene, eds. The Handbook of Interethnic Coexistence (New York: The Continuing Publishing Company, 2000), 162-181.

[8] The Ukrainian Centre for Common Ground has launched a successful restorative justice project. Information available on-line at www.sfcg.org .

[9] Neve Shalom homepage [on-line]; available at www.nswas.com ; Internet.

[10] Lessons in Tolerance after Conflict.  http://www.beyondintractability.org/library/external-resource?biblio=9997

[11] "A Global Quest for Tolerance" [article on-line] (UNESCO, 1995, accessed 11 February 2003); available at http://www.unesco.org/new/en/social-and-human-sciences/themes/fight-against-discrimination/promoting-tolerance/ ; Internet.

[12] Louis Kriesberg, "Coexistence and the Reconciliation of Communal Conflicts." In Weiner, Eugene, eds. The Handbook of Interethnic Coexistence (New York: The Continuing Publishing Company, 2000), 182-198.

Use the following to cite this article: Peterson, Sarah. "Tolerance." Beyond Intractability . Eds. Guy Burgess and Heidi Burgess. Conflict Information Consortium, University of Colorado, Boulder. Posted: July 2003 < http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/tolerance >.

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