The Role of Tolerance in Modern Societies

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 13 October 2025 Abstract: The modern era is defined by knowledge, research, technology, and global connections. While these developments have brought progress and prosperity, they have also created challenges, especially due to narrow-mindedness and intolerance. In many communities, critical thinking and intellectual engagement are often discouraged, which limits education, research, and social development. Narrow-mindedness exists not only among ordinary people but also among influential figures and institutions, affecting society as a whole. Tolerance, or the ability to respect diverse beliefs, ideas, and cultures, is essential to reduce conflicts, promote social harmony, and strengthen national unity. Islamic teachings also emphasise respect and patience in dealing with differences. Encouraging open-mindedness in schools, workplaces, and communities can foster cooperation, innovation, and peaceful coexistence. Main Points: 1. Narrow-mindedness hinders education and research. 2. Tolerance promotes respect for different beliefs and ideas. 3. Open-mindedness strengthens social harmony and national unity. 4. Education and workplaces are crucial for fostering tolerance. 5. Following inclusive and tolerant principles leads to societal progress and human welfare. ----- The present era is unique in many ways, particularly due to modern inventions, discoveries, and information technology. Modern research and scientific advancements have brought progress and prosperity to societies and nations. At the same time, it cannot be denied that information technology has also had negative effects. Considering both aspects, it is certain that modern sciences, arts, and new discoveries hold their own significance and value. Institutions and individuals contributing to such work deserve respect and recognition. Societies that promote analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and critical evaluation serve as role models for those that lack the ability to analyse, reflect, or develop their skills. It is important for a society to encourage balanced thinking, critical analysis, and objectivity. Unfortunately, today we observe a shortage of intellectual, research-oriented, and theoretical engagement within our communities. A primary reason for this is that institutions, organisations, and groups often ignore or undervalue critical and research-oriented thinking. Individuals who ask logical questions are sometimes accused of disrespecting elders, ancestors, or leaders. Furthermore, an environment is created that makes the public believe that such questioning takes a person outside the fold of Islam. This mindset has severely affected the promotion of research and intellectual work in the Muslim community. Today, many influential individuals and religious leaders blame governments for discriminatory practices in education. While there may be some truth to these claims, it is undeniable that narrow-mindedness has also prevented intellectual and scholarly growth. Even in this modern era, many people are not prepared to accept questions or challenges to traditional views. If we want to instil a revolutionary spirit within society, we must change our thinking, approach, and attitude, and actively practice tolerance. We must move beyond the confinement of narrow-mindedness. Another major reason for backwardness in education among Muslims is the lack of recognition and appreciation for the skills and contributions of scholars and intellectuals. Sadly, this negative mindset is spreading rapidly. This problem is not limited to individuals; it is present in institutions, groups, and organisations as well. We often notice that despite extraordinary positive contributions from certain individuals or institutions, public praise and recognition are withheld. Sectarian, communal, or regional biases often prevent acknowledgement of their work. The negative impact of this mindset is not limited to the individuals involved; it affects the entire community. We rarely consider that encouraging talent and demonstrating tolerance can have highly beneficial effects at the national level. The success of an individual, institution, or group contributes not only to them but also enhances the reputation of the country and nation. Narrow-mindedness is not only found among ordinary people; it is often more pronounced among so-called intellectuals who claim to champion collective action and centralisation. When it comes to their own beliefs or interests, these individuals sometimes act as major obstacles to societal and human development. The roots of narrow-mindedness are often strengthened by influential figures who wield significant power in society. In addition, the lack of education and research in the Muslim community is partly due to an inability to tolerate challenges to traditional methods or practices. Even when these traditions contradict Islamic teachings, questioning them is not accepted. Many of these issues are most visible in religious institutions, such as madrasas and khanqahs, where narrow-minded teachings are passed down. The statements of these institutions or representatives are often accepted by the public as religious truth, even when they are sectarian or partial. Regrettably, many religious institutions today focus on promoting sectarian rules under the guise of Islamic teachings, rather than truly spreading the values of Islam. This approach contributes to social unrest and widespread division. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate research-oriented and analytical thinking in such institutions. When constructive and intellectual messages are promoted from these platforms, they have a profound positive impact on society. Narrow-mindedness in any form is harmful. Its effects are always negative, including the suppression of intellectual and research work, as well as the promotion of hatred and hostility. We can observe the consequences of this in pluralistic societies, such as India, where prejudices and divisions have spread rapidly. It is evident that narrow-mindedness is dangerous, and wherever it exists, it brings harm. It is essential to recognise and appreciate the talents of young people, regardless of their religious or cultural background. Suppression of critical thinking and traditional questioning must end. When society develops a more open and analytical mindset, education, teaching, research, and criticism will flourish. This will also promote national harmony and peaceful coexistence. The most pressing need is to eliminate narrow-mindedness, to foster positive relationships among communities and cultures, and to uphold human rights and social welfare. These values can only thrive when we strengthen tolerance and open-mindedness, while actively removing all forms of intolerance from society. Along with this, it also seems appropriate to state that today's era is one of knowledge, research, modern technology, and global connections. Modern societies have become more complex and diverse due to different cultures, beliefs, and the rapid flow of information. Naturally, differences in opinions, ideas, and cultures exist among people. If these differences are not understood and respected, they can lead to conflict, hatred, and social instability. This is why tolerance – the ability to accept and respect others’ views – plays a very important role in modern societies. The main purpose of tolerance is to ensure that people respect others’ beliefs, ideas, and actions, and do not let disagreements become conflicts. In today’s world, where media, social networks, and global communication expose everyone to different ideas, a lack of tolerance can increase misunderstandings, prejudice, and extremism. On the other hand, when people try to listen to and understand others’ opinions, social relationships strengthen, mutual respect grows, and harmony is maintained in society. Tolerance is also emphasised in Islamic teachings. The Quran and the Sunnah instruct humans to respect others’ beliefs and to deal with differences patiently and generously. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ maintained good relations with people of different tribes and religions, promoting social harmony and unity. Modern societies also need to follow this principle by accepting diversity and respecting differences to create a positive social environment. In practical terms, tolerance is very important in education, society, and professional life. Schools and universities can teach students to be open-minded and respectful, helping them engage in interfaith and intercultural dialogue. In workplaces, tolerant individuals contribute to teamwork, communication, and innovation by accepting diverse ideas. In conclusion, tolerance in modern societies reduces conflicts, strengthens social harmony, supports national unity, and encourages overall progress. Societies that promote open-mindedness and respect become examples of stability, development, and human welfare --- Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi is an author and a New Age Islam Regular Columnist. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/role-tolerance-modern-societies/d/137219 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism