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Paradox of Tolerance

“[i]f tolerance is taken to the point where it tolerates the
destruction of those same principles that made tolerance
possible in the first place, it becomes intolerable.”
—Gaetano Mosca (1858-1941), Italian political scientist 

People touting their tolerance
often are those
who are most prone to holler
while aiming their blows
at groups whose past performance
they think has not quite
been in total conformance
with what they deem right.

They begin with untainted
intentions that would
cause them all to be sainted
if they ever could
ever be altruistic,
at peace and serene,
but when they go ballistic,
they get really mean.

It is not hypocritical,
seen through their eyes,
to be hate-filled and critical
when they despise
someone they deem intolerant,
then it’s fair to
get hot under the collar,
and shout till they’re blue.

They define toleration
as acts that are kind
towards all in their nation
with whom they’re aligned.
To these like-minded brothers,
they give all they’ve got,
but they often wish others
would die and then rot.

When someone with such notions
becomes an elite,
then not facts, but emotions
dictate how we treat
any child who is dealing
with pubescent flaws,
or a criminal stealing,
but for a “good cause.”

So, when crimes get committed,
they’re either ignored,
or the perps get acquitted,
but when we reward
all these heinous infractions,
we lose people’s trust
and assure more such actions,
without being just.

When it’s feelings that dominate,
then we have got
a case where things are commonly
done without thought.
But our brains were put there for
our aid when confused—
we have heart and brains therefore
they both should be used.

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Warren Bonham is a private equity investor who lives in Southlake, Texas.

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13 Responses

  1. Roy Eugene Peterson

    Warren, this is a great poem about the intolerance of those preach tolerance, but are filled with hate themselves and how tolerance allows the dregs of society to “succeed.” I love the quote to set the scene! How appropriate.

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      Mosca bravely stood in opposition to Mussolini who came to power preaching about how much tolerance he was going to demonstrate (which turned out to be very little towards anyone who opposed him).

      Reply
  2. Gigi Ryan

    Dear Warren,
    This is like Dr. Seuss for adults. The meter reminds me of his wonderful work and he, too, would show the inconsistencies and insanities he observed.
    Gigi

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      Dr. Seuss has always been a role model for me. That comparison is very much appreciated.

      Reply
  3. Cheryl A Corey

    Insightful poem. Why should we be expected to tolerate that which is intolerable? Mr. Mosca had it right.

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      Mosca was cancelled before being cancelled was a “thing”. Perhaps he can make a comeback now.

      Reply
  4. Christian Muller

    Really liked the poem. What sort of structure is this, never seen it before? An older style or your own invention?

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      Inspired by Seuss with the anapestic form, but with an extra double-rhyme thrown into the mix. I don’t think I’ve seen this used before, but I could easily be wrong about that. I’m very glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply
  5. Susan Jarvis Bryant

    Warren, what excellent points you make in thoroughly engaging poetry. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      I’m glad you like both the points and the poetry. I grew up surrounded by tolerant people, most of whom no longer tolerate me for some reason. It was easy to write this one.

      Reply
  6. Margaret Coats

    As usual, Warren, you can take an unusual meter and make a longish poem of salient points rhythmically readable. The demand for tolerance becomes demanding rather than justified, and this is a lesson now well learned not only by groups within a nation, but also by any aggrieved individual. Often an individual emboldened to become intolerant has indeed been a victim, but when that is combined with achieving elite status in any way, he can feel justified at lashing out with harsh and hateful complaints intended to victimize others. This is the paradox of tolerance without justice you describe. It destroys social relationships requiring true tolerance that begins with taking care to understand and appreciate one’s neighbors. As you say, heart and brains should both be used!

    Reply
    • Warren Bonham

      I like the point you make about aggrieved individuals. The poem was mostly about groups being pitted against other groups, but everything starts with individuals. Many of them have very legitimate grievances, but those grievances are often used as justification for intolerance, as you rightly point out. Thank you as always for the very thoughtful read.

      Reply
  7. Cynthia L Erlandson

    I, too, enjoyed both the meaning of the poem, and the rollicking Seussian rhythm.

    Reply

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