The Distinction of Tolerance and Toleration — Also on the Limits of Tolerance

Shuang Li
DOI:10.46852/2249-6637.02.2023.8

Abstract:

Tolerance and toleration are a pair of terms with differences and complex relationships, and the connotations and differences

between them have always been different, and no clear and relatively consistent understanding has been formed in the academic

field. By examining them from a comprehensive perspective, we can find that the differences between tolerance and toleration are

mainly reflected in four aspects: status value, psychological expression, the object of concern, and contingency and inevitability.

Through the analysis, we can find that tolerance is a higher moral quality or ought-value, and its psychological mechanism is active

and proactive, while toleration is an essential requirement and a fundamental norm. Its psychological characteristics are mainly

passive and restrained. The analysis of the concept helps us to understand the value of tolerance to individuals and society, but

tolerance is not always valuable, and in the public and private spheres, tolerance or not is based on the reasonable limits of law and

moral conscience.

Tolerance as a virtue, especially in the Chinese context, has a high spiritual value. However, toleration is a lesser moral imperative that is more oriented towards instrumental values.
Tolerance is more positive and active in its psychological mechanisms, whereas toleration is more negative and passive.
Tolerance is more concerned with the person itself and the process, while toleration is more concerned with the thing itself and the outcome.
Tolerance can only bring its value into play within reasonable limits, otherwise it will evolve into unprincipled indulgence.