Customs Quote by John Money
“Neither tolerance nor intolerance is grounded in science and reason, but they are themselves acts of faith grounded in social custom and the politics of expediency and power.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Social Construction of Gender, 1995
Science and reason do not justify tolerance or intolerance; both are rooted in cultural faith and power dynamics.
In simple terms: Tolerance isn’t based on facts but on social belief and power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize bias in moral judgments.
Themes
ethics
power
culture
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- education curricula
- public discourse
- legal decisions
- media analysis
Key Concepts
social construction
faith
expediency
Questions to Reflect On
- How do power structures shape moral beliefs?
- Can reason ever be truly neutral?
A Different Perspective
Science cannot settle moral disputes alone.
