TOLERANCE

Definition of TOLERANCE

TOLERANCE Noun

Tolerance is primarily used as a noun, referring to the willingness to accept opinions, behaviors, or practices that differ from one’s own.

As a noun, tolerance denotes the ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions, behaviors, or practices that one does not necessarily agree with or endorse. For example, “Social tolerance is essential for fostering harmony and understanding in diverse communities,” illustrates its role in promoting respect and coexistence among people with different beliefs or backgrounds.

Types of Tolerance: Tolerance can encompass various forms, including cultural tolerance, religious tolerance, political tolerance, and tolerance towards diversity in gender identity or sexual orientation. Each type involves respecting and acknowledging differences while upholding principles of equality and human rights. For example, “Educational programs promote tolerance towards cultural diversity to cultivate mutual understanding and appreciation,” underscores efforts to foster inclusive environments.

Social Cohesion: Tolerance contributes to social cohesion by encouraging empathy, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among individuals and groups with divergent perspectives or identities. It supports democratic principles of freedom of expression and equality, facilitating constructive interactions and collective problem-solving. For example, “Community initiatives promote tolerance through dialogue forums and cultural exchanges to bridge social divides,” emphasizes community-building efforts.

Ethical and Moral Considerations: Tolerance reflects ethical values of respect, compassion, and fairness towards others, regardless of differences in beliefs, lifestyles, or identities. It encompasses principles of human dignity and non-discrimination, challenging prejudice and promoting empathy in interpersonal and societal interactions. For example, “Educational curricula emphasize the importance of ethical tolerance as a cornerstone of democratic citizenship,” highlights its role in fostering ethical responsibility.

Legal and Political Frameworks: Tolerance is upheld within legal frameworks that protect individuals’ rights to freedom of belief, expression, and association. Legal protections against discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation reinforce principles of equality and justice in diverse societies. For example, “Human rights legislation safeguards individuals’ rights to religious tolerance and non-discrimination in employment and public services,” underscores legal protections against intolerance and discrimination.

Challenges and Controversies: Despite efforts to promote tolerance, challenges persist, including intolerance, prejudice, hate speech, and systemic discrimination. Addressing these issues requires education, awareness campaigns, policy reforms, and community engagement to combat intolerance and promote inclusivity. For example, “Anti-hate initiatives aim to counteract intolerance and promote respect for diversity through public education and advocacy,” outlines strategies to address societal challenges.

Global Perspectives: Tolerance is a universal value recognized across cultures and societies, influencing international relations, peacebuilding efforts, and global citizenship. Multilateral cooperation and dialogue foster mutual tolerance among nations, promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable development goals. For example, “International diplomacy emphasizes the importance of diplomatic tolerance in resolving conflicts and advancing global cooperation,” reflects its role in international relations.

In conclusion, tolerance is a fundamental concept that promotes respect, understanding, and acceptance of diversity in opinions, beliefs, and identities. Upholding tolerance contributes to social harmony, ethical responsibility, and democratic principles, fostering inclusive societies where individuals and communities thrive in mutual respect and equality.

Examples of TOLERANCE in a sentence

  • Tolerance towards diversity is a hallmark of a progressive society.
  • They emphasized the importance of religious tolerance in the community.
  • The school promotes a culture of tolerance and respect among students.
  • Tolerance for different viewpoints encourages healthy debate.
  • The politician advocated for racial tolerance in his campaign.
  • Building tolerance towards uncertainty can reduce anxiety.
  • The organization works to promote gender tolerance in workplaces.
  • Cultivating tolerance towards mistakes fosters a growth mindset.

Origin of TOLERANCE

The term tolerance has an intriguing linguistic history that reflects its evolution in meaning and cultural significance over time.

  • Latin Origins: The word tolerance is derived from the Latin verb “tolerare,” which means “to endure” or “to bear.” This root reflects the idea of withstanding hardship or discomfort.
  • Middle English Development: In the 14th century, the term tolerance entered Middle English as “tolerancia,” borrowed from Old French. During this period, it retained its original sense of enduring or bearing something, often related to pain or hardship.
  • Cultural and Religious Significance: By the 16th and 17th centuries, tolerance began to take on a broader, more philosophical and religious meaning. It started to denote the acceptance of differing beliefs and practices, particularly in the context of religious pluralism and the emerging ideas of individual rights and freedoms.
  • Modern Application: In contemporary usage, tolerance generally refers to the willingness to accept or permit the existence of opinions or behavior that one may not necessarily agree with. It encompasses social, cultural, religious, and political dimensions, emphasizing respect and understanding among diverse groups.

The term tolerance illustrates the journey from its Latin origins, focused on endurance, to a modern concept of acceptance and respect for diversity. It underscores the evolution of societal values towards inclusivity and mutual respect.

Synonyms

  • Acceptance
  • Open-mindedness
  • Understanding
  • Patience
  • Endurance
  • Respect
  • Forbearance
  • Broad-mindedness

Antonyms

  • Intolerance
  • Bigotry
  • Prejudice
  • Discrimination
  • Narrow-mindedness
  • Bias
  • Inflexibility
  • Close-mindedness

Related

  • Diversity
  • Equality
  • Harmony
  • Coexistence
  • Pluralism
  • Empathy
  • Compassion
  • Civility

🌐 🇬🇧 TOLERANCE in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com