Toleranz: Einfach schwer

The life plans, values, religious and cultural backgrounds of people are becoming increasingly diverse. Some see this as an enrichment, while many perceive it as a burden. What must society, and what must the individual, tolerate, and where are the limits of tolerance? How much difference must one endure, and how much criticism can one withstand? In his new book, Joachim Gauck advocates for a combative form of tolerance. "I have always believed that there can be no laissez-faire towards those who trample on plurality and tolerance. Tolerance, which praises leniency and forbearance towards the despisers of tolerance, helps the perpetrators and not the victims. Intolerance towards an intolerance that oppresses and despises people is a stance of democrats in the name of human dignity." Driven by the firm conviction that society needs a clearer and more conscious debate about tolerance, he explores the questions: What constitutes tolerance and why is it necessary? And why is intolerance so popular and attractive today? The major issues of our time – such as the rise of populist parties, debates in migration policy, the increasing presence of Islam in European societies, the looming climate catastrophe, and the growing digitization of the world – provide ample ground for what an individual is willing to accept and endure. This gives rise to forms of extremism and intolerance that the former Federal President identifies as the great challenges of our time, as Islamic fundamentalism joins the already existing left- and right-wing extremism. However, to accuse only those who hold extreme views of intolerance is shortsighted. The "intolerance of the good" can also weaken the community. This political correctness, in terms of political and ethical orientation, does contribute to mutual respect.