Tolerance is an attitude of reasoned patience towards evil…
“Tolerance is an attitude of reasoned patience towards evil and a forbearance that restrains us from showing anger or inflicting punishment. But what is more important than the definition is the field of its application. The important point here is this: Tolerance applies only to persons but never to truth. Intolerance applies only to truth but never to persons. Tolerance applies to the erring; intolerance to the error.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Tolerance should be extended to people, not to falsehoods; truth must be defended even if it means confronting individuals.
In simple terms: Accept people, reject falsehoods.
Key Takeaway
Defend truth while showing compassion.
Themes
tolerance
truth
ethics
justice
Mood
thoughtful
instructive
Type
theological
ethical
When to use this quote
- public discourse
- education
- judicial decisions
Key Concepts
philosophical ethics
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- When should truth override tolerance?
- How do you balance compassion with factual integrity?
A Different Perspective
Applying tolerance to truth can be complex when truth is contested.