Tolerance Cannot Be Learned from Books

Tolerance cannot be learned from books

One cannot discuss the delicate topic of tolerance without giving the precise definition of both tolerance and intolerance. To be tolerant is to respect the freedom of others and also to respect their way of thinking and behaving, without especially criticizing or judging them. For this to happen, one must go outside, make acquaintances and socialize. No two people in the world are exactly alike. Even identical twins have different viewpoints and own diverse experiences. Is it necessary for one to be in agreement with his peers in order to respect their right to a personal opinion? My answer to that is “No”.

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, religion, nationality and so on differ from one's own. Whereas when reading books, one does not have any social interaction with a person or a group of different beliefs. Thus, it cannot be learned through reading. 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".

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 inter-group violence.

At a recent post-9/11 conference on multiculturalism in the United States, participants asked, "How can we be tolerant of those who are intolerant of us?”. For many, tolerating intolerance is neither acceptable nor possible. Though tolerance may seem an impossible exercise in certain situations, being so nonetheless remains key to...