Can tolerance be considered morally sufficient in the absence of justice?
In this essay, I will discuss the role that tolerance plays in society and whether it can be considered morally sufficient without justice. Tolerance is often seen as a virtue and necessary for a healthy society.
Can tolerance alone ever truly bring about justice? This question has been debated by philosophers throughout history. In this essay, I will explore both sides of the argument to determine if there is a valid point to either viewpoint.
Let's examine what exactly constitutes tolerance. The dictionary defines tolerance as "the ability or willingness to tolerate something, in particular the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with." This definition suggests that tolerance involves an acceptance of others who are different from oneself. It implies that individuals are able to coexist peacefully despite their differences.
Is tolerance enough? Does tolerating another person automatically mean that they are treated fairly and equally under the law? I would argue that no, it does not.
Tolerance can certainly help create a more harmonious environment, but it falls short when it comes to ensuring that everyone is treated equitably.
Imagine two people, one who is wealthy and the other who is poor. If both individuals were tolerant of each other, they could still live side-by-side peacefully.
This doesn't guarantee that the poor individual would receive fair treatment in terms of wages or access to resources. The same goes for any number of societal issues, including race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, etc.
Justice, on the other hand, requires more than just tolerance. Justice means that all members of society have equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their background or beliefs. When justice exists, every individual has a fair chance at achieving success and living a fulfilling life. In contrast, without justice, some groups will always be disadvantaged due to factors beyond their control, such as social class, skin color, or religious affiliation.
So which is morally superior - tolerance or justice? While tolerance may seem like the easier option, true equality can only be achieved through justice. Without justice, certain groups within society will continue to suffer because of arbitrary circumstances.
While tolerance is an important virtue, it cannot replace the need for a truly just society.
Can tolerance be considered morally sufficient in the absence of justice?
One's understanding of what constitutes morality is influenced by several factors including cultural background, personal experiences, and individual values. Some believe that tolerance is the key to peaceful coexistence between individuals with different beliefs, while others argue that justice must prevail for a healthy society. It is impossible to make a universal judgment on which one is more important as these concepts are intertwined.