The Conservative Perspective on Tolerance: More Than Just Endurance

Conservatives, as a political ideology, often categorize tolerance, or the ability to accept and respect views and behaviors different from one's own, as a necessary concept for societal harmony. However, when it comes to the application and understanding of tolerance, there are significant differences between conservative and liberal perspectives. This divergence is particularly illustrated through the lens of popular culture and historical context.

Cultural Representation: South Park and the Misunderstanding of Tolerance

The animated series South Park provides a humorous but impactful exploration of this ideological conflict. In one of its episodes, titled "Death Camp of Tolerance," the character Ronald "Ronald the Gay Nazi" Garrison, a staple of the show, argues against the notion that tolerating an illness (a metaphor for homophobia) is the same as agreeing with it. He compares tolerance to merely enduring bad colds or crying children on an airplane, stating, "You tolerate a bad cold or you tolerate a crying child on an airplane. It can still poss you the hell off!"

This cartoon example resonates with conservative perspectives, which often contend that tolerance does not equate to endorsement or agreement. Instead, it is a form of endurance, a necessary but passive stance. Meanwhile, liberals may see tolerance as a more active process, requiring not just the absence of hatred but also genuine acceptance and understanding.

The Rigid Ideology of Conservatives and the Struggle for Tolerance

Conservatives typically hold a profoundly rigid set of beliefs and values that they feel should be universal. This ideological extremity can lead to a perception that tolerance is merely a tool for social control, rather than an intrinsic value. They often subscribe to a philosophy that believes everyone should abide by their specific set of rules and values, which can sometimes clash with the more fluid and inclusive definitions of tolerance espoused by liberals.

This rigidity can be seen in the historical context of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Conservatives seek to conserve the ideals encapsulated in these documents, which inherently include provisions for free speech and religious expression. However, the application of these ideals can vary widely. Conservative tolerance is more about the preservation of certain values rather than the endorsement of every individual belief.

Modern vs. Classical Tolerance: A Conservative Perspective

The idea that conservatives are more tolerant than liberals is a nuanced topic. Historically, modern conservatives are generally more open to dialogue and acceptance compared to their classical liberal predecessors. However, this tolerance has its limits. It is not an absolute endorsement of all views but rather a management of conflicting viewpoints within a framework of pre-established values.

This distinction is crucial to understanding conservative tolerance. While they may not agree with every ideology, they recognize the importance of dialogue and discussion. The key is in the context and the degree to which these views align with their core beliefs. For example, while a conservative might tolerate a political viewpoint that aligns partially with their own, they may not extend the same tolerance to viewpoints that oppose fundamental tenets of their ideology.

The Battle of Ideologies and the Struggle for Freedom of Speech

The rhetoric of the contemporary political left often involves the suppression of speech on college campuses and in broader society. This trend is concerning to many conservatives, who see it as a direct threat to the principles of free speech and expression. The distortion of the concept of tolerance can lead to an environment where only certain types of speech are deemed acceptable, which goes against the principles of open dialogue and freedom of thought.

Conservatives thus engage in a delicate balancing act. They seek to conserve the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, including the freedom of speech and the freedom of religion. The degree to which they can tolerate differing points of view without compromising their core values is a testament to their ideological stance.

Conclusion: Tolerance as Endurance and Politeness

Tolerance is not an absolute for conservatives. It is a complex and nuanced concept that involves endurance, politeness, and a recognition of the inherent value of diverse views. Whether it is about enduring a bad cold or engaging in polite disagreement, the conservative perspective on tolerance is often about managing societal challenges within the framework of established values.

Ultimately, the true measure of tolerance is in the context and the reaction to the action being tolerated. While some conservatives may run away from problems, others engage directly and constructively. The degree of tolerance, therefore, is not about endorsing everything but about navigating a diverse and complex world with respect and dignity.