The Paradox of Tolerance as a Shield to Demonstrate Intolerance

J Contin Educ Nurs. 2025 Aug;56(8):312-313. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20250718-03. Epub 2025 Aug 1.

Abstract

Karl Popper first articulated the paradox of tolerance in The Open Society and Its Enemies in 1945. Essentially, the concept emerged from the notion that if we extend tolerance to those who are intolerant, we risk enabling intolerance as a norm, undermining the concept of tolerance. Unfortunately, history shows the paradox has been alive and well for centuries. Meanwhile, using the argument as a shield to normalize someone's intolerance is unacceptable. A paradox within the paradox. This is particularly seen when someone's ideology is threatened.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Incivility*
  • Permissiveness*
  • Social Behavior*