Tolerance is an important value that can help individuals and groups to live peacefully together.
Some argue that tolerance itself is a form of power that maintains dominance rather than dismantles it. This essay will explore this argument through examining the way tolerance operates in different contexts and how it can reinforce oppressive systems.
Let's define what we mean by "tolerance." Tolerance refers to the willingness to accept or allow behavior or beliefs that are different from one's own without necessarily agreeing with them. In other words, it is the act of being open-minded and accepting towards people who have different views, values, or lifestyles. It involves recognizing that everyone has their unique perspective and that there may be multiple ways of seeing things.
Let's consider some examples where tolerance might be used as a tool for maintaining power structures. One such example is colonialism. Colonial powers often claimed to practice tolerance towards the indigenous peoples they conquered. They allowed them to continue practicing their religions, speak their languages, and engage in their traditional customs while also imposing their rule and exploiting their resources. By claiming to be tolerant, the colonizers could assert their superiority over the natives and justify their actions.
Another example is sexual harassment at workplaces. Employers may claim to tolerate certain behaviors like catcalling or sexual jokes even though these are forms of gender-based violence. This creates an environment where women feel uncomfortable and unsafe, which can lead to lower productivity and decreased job satisfaction.
Employers may defend their tolerance of such behavior by arguing that they are simply allowing freedom of speech or expression.
It is clear that tolerance can be a form of power that reinforces existing social hierarchies and oppressive systems. It can be used to maintain dominance and control rather than dismantle it.
This does not mean that we should abandon tolerance altogether. Rather, we must recognize its limitations and work towards true equity and justice.
Is tolerance itself a form of power that maintains dominance rather than dismantles it?
Tolerance can be seen as a form of power that maintains dominance rather than dismantles it, but this is not always true. On the one hand, tolerance can be used as a tool for individuals and groups who are marginalized or oppressed to gain acceptance and recognition from those who hold more privilege and power. In this way, tolerance can challenge existing structures of domination by creating space for diverse perspectives and experiences.