Tolerance is a concept that characterizes a person's ability to calmly and condescendingly relate to the shortcomings of other people, to recognize their right to opinions, views, tastes that are different from his own. It would seem so simple! And at the same time, it is incredibly difficult. After all, human nature is such that it is “all that’s” that seems right. The old wise saying "Your shirt is closer to your body!" says the same thing.
Why be tolerant? But because intolerance is the main reason for all conflicts: from quarrels between classmates to wars! For example, one person is willing to understand and admit the simple truth that a person other than you is not necessarily your enemy. He will seek a compromise that suits both sides.
For an intolerant person, the very thought that one can recognize an equal “stranger” who does not resemble him (in appearance, religious or national identity, worldview) is simply unbearable. He sincerely believes that he must either be persuaded to take his point of view (convert to his faith), or forced to obey. And the entire history of the world is witness to this. How much blood was shed in the same religious wars!
Intolerance is also very harmful in everyday life. For example, what kind of lasting marriage can we talk about if one of the spouses openly suppresses the other, not wanting to even listen to him, finds fault, constantly ridicules his shortcomings, mistakes? Such a family will almost certainly fall apart. And will the work collective be friendly, efficient, if its leader is completely intolerant of even the slightest omissions, mistakes or human weaknesses of subordinates, insults them, arranges gross "harassment"? He may completely sincerely believe that he is doing the right thing, but this is clearly not going to benefit the cause!
Even in seemingly simple everyday situations, such as traveling on public transport or shopping in a store, intolerance can do a disservice. Surely each of you has witnessed quarrels, scandals between passengers or sellers and buyers, sometimes on the verge of ugly rudeness. And because of absolutely insignificant reasons! And if the brawlers were more tolerant of the shortcomings and oversights of other people, the nerves would be more whole, and the mood would remain unspoiled.
Of course, this does not mean that one must go to the other extreme, such as non-resistance to evil by violence, which Leo Tolstoy preached at the end of his life. Everything is good in moderation, and tolerance must also have boundaries. Otherwise, it will turn into indulgence and impunity. Here, as in all other cases, a "golden mean" is needed.
