Paul Wilczynski's Observations

Can we always tolerate tolerance?

Social Gospel Today says that 'The Left's rhetoric of "tolerance" alienates Christians of all stripes and must be abandoned in favor of a more precise articulation of progressive values.'

Some examples ... 'Must we "tolerate" those who believe that taking illegal drugs leads them to a higher state of being and abuse them? Must we "tolerate" those who believe that polygamy is permissible and practice it? Must we "tolerate" those who ethically disagree with the income tax and thereby refuse to pay it? Must we "tolerate" those who cite examples in the Bible for the proposition that having sex with children is permissible and then do it? Must we "tolerate" those who believe in human sacrifice and practice it? Must we "tolerate" those who support Islamic terrorism and fund it?'

Solutions: 'When the Left says tolerance it often means "equal justice." ... When the Left says tolerance it often means "liberty." ... When the Left says tolerance it often means "religious freedom."

In conclusion: '"Tolerance" is an ineffective and misleading short-hand for more concrete and less alienating values. The Left must abandon the overinclusive rhetoric of tolerance and defend equality, liberty, and religious freedom.'

posted by Paul Wilczynski @ 7:45 AM