I went back through the archives of a group I once belonged to and found a little something I wrote I thought might be interesting to explore:
What is the Purpose of Tolerance?
To allow the coexistence of other living things in a non-hostile environment in such a way as is beneficial to other living things in said environment.
In other words:
It's not merely a begrudging acquiescence (a passive hostility) of that 'others' existence, but rather an interested and sincere acceptance of the other, including their differences; a recognition of that other's well-being as vital to the growth and the harmony of the environment.
What is NOT the purpose of tolerance:
To allow non-beneficial or hostile entities to create disharmony or negatively influence an environment from a non-reciprocated level of acceptance in which the negative entity seeks to spread INtolerance of those existing in the environment.
In other words:
Tolerating genocide, hate speech and the like are not the acts of a tolerant person, but to paraphrase a quote I recently read, they are an act of cowardice.
That's how I see it in my view ;) What's yours?
Warmly,
Jenny
I like that about tolerance not being a passive hostility because it could turn into active hostility at any given moment. True tolerance en masse, I am afraid, is still eons away.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I'm with you on the "eons" away thing. I don't think we're destined to ever find that perfect world, but just because I don't believe I'll ever be a billionaire doesn't stop me from earning a paycheck :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the thoughts!
Warmly,
Jenny
I believe intolerance also springs from fear and ignorance.
ReplyDeleteGood, thought-provoking post
Mary
http://marycunninghambooks.com
http://cynthiasattic.blogspot.com
Yes, that all sounds really good, but who decides what's beneficial and what's hostile?
ReplyDeleteThanks Mary! And a good thought on your behalf as well :)
ReplyDeleteHydra, I see your point :)
I would imagine those peacefully co-existing would understand the origins of the hostility. However, I recognize that not everyone recognizes that which is different can also be beneficial.
I believe that's why tolerance, as I defined it, is not something one does without thought, and sometimes that thoughtfulness is difficult.
Great reply!
Warmly,
Jenny:)