[S]ocial order displays not the absolute presence or…
![“[S]ocial order displays not the absolute presence or absence of intolerance to difference but a spectrum of intolerance. Each of us bears responsibility to some degree for maintaining these protocols of intolerance, which could not be kept in place if every single one of us did not play our part…” quote by Nivedita Menon](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/723/nivedita-menon-63731_beauty-policing_s-ocial-order-displays-not-the-absolute_963124.jpg)
““[S]ocial order displays not the absolute presence or absence of intolerance to difference but a spectrum of intolerance. Each of us bears responsibility to some degree for maintaining these protocols of intolerance, which could not be kept in place if every single one of us did not play our part. From bringing up children ‘appropriately’, to lovingly correcting or punishing their inappropriate behaviour, to making sure we never breach the protocols ourselves, to staring or sniggering at people who look different, to coercive psychiatric and medical intervention, to emotional blackmail, to physical violence-it’s a range of slippages all the way that we seldom recognize.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society tolerates difference on a spectrum, and everyone contributes to maintaining or challenging that tolerance through everyday actions.
In simple terms: People help shape how tolerant or intolerant a society is.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question your role in upholding intolerance.
Themes
social justice
responsibility
intolerance
culture
power dynamics
Mood
reflective
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- media representation
- healthcare
- law enforcement
Key Concepts
social norms
collective responsibility
bias
institutional oppression
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your daily choices reinforce or challenge intolerance?
- What can you do to shift the spectrum toward tolerance?
A Different Perspective
Changing attitudes requires systemic change, not just individual effort.