Final answer:
Practicing tolerance involves acknowledging and accepting the existence of different opinions and practices without necessarily agreeing with them.
Step-by-step explanation:
To practice tolerance means to acknowledge and accept the existence of opinions, behaviors, and practices that are different from one's own, without necessarily agreeing with them. It is a principle commonly associated with liberal democracies and pluralistic societies where a wide array of ideas and cultures coexist. Tolerance involves a delicate balance; while it is essential for peaceful cohabitation and mutual respect, it also presents challenges, such as the paradox of tolerance, which posits that unlimited tolerance may lead to the erosion of tolerance itself if intolerant views or actions are allowed to prevail.
In contexts such as postmodern cultures, tolerance is seen as supportive of relativism, suggesting that beliefs and values are relative to specific cultures or societies. However, the promotion of tolerance has its critics, especially when it comes to normative ethical relativism, which contends that tolerance cannot be a universal value because different cultures may prioritize different ethical standards. Yet, the practice of tolerance is still largely advocated as it allows for a more harmonious society and an appreciation for diversity, as well as a way to manage intergroup relations across the spectrum from tolerance to intolerance.
It is important to note that tolerance does not equate to passive acceptance of harmful or disrespectful behaviors and ideas. A nuanced understanding of tolerance acknowledges the need to protect individuals and communities from harm while also recognizing the right to hold differing viewpoints.