By Advocate Abdal Shams
In recent years, society at large has witnessed a troubling and alarming decline in tolerance, the very virtue that underpins peaceful coexistence, democracy, and social harmony. Tolerance, defined as the willingness to accept and respect opinions, beliefs, and practices different from one’s own, is a cornerstone of any just and stable society. When tolerance diminishes, the delicate fabric that holds communities together begins to unravel, resulting in deep divisions, social unrest, and the erosion of fundamental freedoms. It is therefore crucial to examine the causes behind this decline, understand its far-reaching implications, and explore the urgent need to restore this essential quality for the well-being of all.
Tolerance is much more than a passive acceptance; it is an active commitment to recognizing the inherent dignity and rights of others despite differences. Philosopher John Stuart Mill aptly observed, “The despotism of custom is everywhere the standing hindrance to human advancement.” This insight remains profoundly relevant today. When tolerance fades, intolerance and oppression swiftly fill the void, suppressing diversity, innovation, and freedom of thought. The loss of tolerance means that societies risk becoming trapped in rigid dogmas and prejudices that stifle progress and breed conflict.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg of the United States Supreme Court once insightfully remarked, “Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one’s own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.” This statement highlights a common misconception: tolerance does not require one to abandon their values or convictions. Instead, it calls for an unwavering respect for others’ rights and the recognition that differing viewpoints and identities enrich society. When people fail to uphold this respect, the inevitable consequences are injustice, social polarization, and violence. Without tolerance, democracy itself becomes hollow, as it depends on the peaceful coexistence of diverse ideas and peoples.
Several intertwined factors have contributed to the growing decline of tolerance across societies worldwide. The advent of the internet and social media, while revolutionizing communication, has paradoxically exacerbated this problem. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and especially TikTok have become powerful tools for both connection and division. TikTok’s short-form, highly engaging videos often prioritize sensational or emotionally charged content, which can amplify polarizing views and reinforce stereotypes in seconds. These platforms frequently create echo chambers, where algorithms tailor content to users’ existing beliefs, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. This digital environment deepens prejudices and stifles meaningful dialogue between differing viewpoints. Moreover, the rapid and sometimes unchecked spread of misinformation and disinformation fuels fear, mistrust, and hostility toward those perceived as “other,” making social cohesion increasingly fragile in today’s hyperconnected world.
Economic factors also play a significant role in fueling intolerance. Widespread economic hardship, unemployment, and growing inequality lead to frustration and insecurity, which people often channel into scapegoating minorities or marginalized groups. When individuals feel powerless or excluded from social and economic opportunities, they may seek to blame others rather than addressing systemic issues, further deepening social divisions. This sense of alienation and disenfranchisement can quickly escalate into hostility and discriminatory behavior.
The loss of empathy compounds the problem of intolerance. As the Holocaust survivor and writer Elie Wiesel warned, “The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference.” When individuals and societies lose empathy for the experiences and struggles of others, intolerance and hatred take root and flourish. Indifference to suffering and injustice undermines the social bonds that foster compassion, understanding, and cooperation. Without empathy, people become vulnerable to prejudice, stereotypes, and fear-mongering, which are exploited to justify discrimination and exclusion.
The consequences of this decline in tolerance are both severe and far-reaching. Intolerance often manifests in hate crimes, systemic discrimination, verbal and physical violence, and societal fragmentation. These outcomes fracture communities, threaten public safety, and weaken the foundations of peace. The breakdown of social cohesion not only harms those directly targeted but also erodes the sense of security and belonging for everyone. The rise of extremist movements, fueled by intolerance, poses a serious threat to democratic institutions and social stability.
Promoting tolerance requires a multifaceted and sustained approach grounded in respect for human rights and justice. It involves upholding freedom of expression, protecting religious and cultural diversity, and safeguarding the rights of minorities. Equally important is the firm stance against hate speech, prejudice, and all forms of injustice. The legacy of civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us of the imperative to “learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” His words emphasize that tolerance is not a mere ideal but a necessity for survival in an interconnected and pluralistic world.
Restoring tolerance calls for concerted efforts across different sectors of society. Education plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. Schools and educational institutions must emphasize critical thinking, cultural literacy, and respect for diversity from an early age. By fostering an environment where young people learn to appreciate differences rather than fear them, education can build resilient and inclusive communities. Beyond formal education, encouraging open dialogue in public forums and media helps bridge divides, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate empathy.
Justice and fairness are equally vital. Governments and institutions must actively combat discrimination and hate crimes by enforcing laws that protect human rights and promote equality. Economic policies aimed at reducing poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion can alleviate the frustration and resentment that often fuel intolerance. Additionally, providing opportunities for community involvement, volunteerism, and intercultural exchange can build social capital and trust among diverse groups.
In essence, tolerance is not a sign of weakness or passivity but rather a courageous and principled commitment to respect, justice, and humanity. It requires strength to listen, understand, and accept differences without resorting to judgment or violence. The decline of tolerance poses a serious threat to social peace and progress, but it is a challenge that can be overcome. As the Enlightenment philosopher Voltaire famously stated, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” This enduring principle encapsulates the spirit of tolerance as the foundation of a free and just society.
Only by restoring tolerance in our homes, schools, communities, and institutions can we hope to build a society grounded in peace, equality, and mutual respect. It is an urgent moral imperative for all of humanity to reaffirm this virtue, for the sake of current and future generations. The survival of democracy, the flourishing of diversity, and the pursuit of justice depend on our collective commitment to tolerance.( The writer is a practicing lawyer based in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and can be reached at cadetabdal@gmail.com )
