Why is tolerance important in a diverse society

Tolerance and diversity are terms that refer to a way of thinking about, and behaving toward, other people. In modern debate, both deal with creating a fairer society where everyone is treated the same and has the same opportunities, without prejudice arising from their physical or social characteristics.

Countries across the world are becoming increasingly diverse in terms of society and people, so in response, attitudes and behaviors must change to preserve harmony and equality. Diversity refers to the existence of differences within a group. A diverse group of people might differ in age, gender, sexuality, religion, class, disability, ethnicity, race and background.

Societies are more diverse but intolerance is on the rise in too many places. Across the globe, nations and communities face profound and enduring economic, social and environmental challenges.

Poverty, hunger and disease remain at unacceptable levels. Every region is experiencing the rising impact of climate change. Natural disasters are a constant reminder of human vulnerability. Conflicts and inter-community tensions persist across the globe. Millions face the daily threat of violence and displacement. There are no individual solutions to these multifaceted and interrelated challenges. We can only advance as a community of nations and cultures, drawing on human solidarity and recognizing that we share a common destiny.

This is why tolerance is so important. Diversity should be tolerated because a diverse society is more motivating and challenging.

According to Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, the inevitability of globalization and increased access to education and employment opportunities across the world mandates people to tolerate diversity. Technology has broken communication barriers, such as distance, making interaction with other cultures more efficient. When diversity is tolerated, generation gaps are closed, leading to uniform attitudes, values and behaviors towards technology and the society.

Tolerating diversity is necessary because it ensures that international standards of education and professional performance are implemented within the society.