Former Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Abid Hussain said that tolerance must exceed passive coexistence to build a truly good society [1].
His perspective challenges the notion that the absence of conflict is the only requirement for social harmony. By redefining tolerance as an active pursuit of unity, Hussain highlighted the necessity of peace and mutual respect in maintaining a stable citizenry [1].
Speaking during the Sardar Patel Memorial Lectures in India in 1994 [1], Hussain addressed the characteristics required for a functioning society. He said that simply putting up with things that are distasteful does not constitute genuine tolerance [2].
"Tolerance is not just passive coexistence without violence," Hussain said [1].
He emphasized that the foundation of a healthy community depends on the integration of peace and unity. According to Hussain, these elements are not separate goals but are intertwined requirements for a successful social order [2].
"A good society is built on peace, tolerance, and unity," Hussain said [2].
Throughout the lecture, he outlined how these values serve as the primary drivers for promoting stability among citizens. He urged a shift away from minimal tolerance—where individuals merely avoid violence—toward a more robust commitment to coexistence [1].
“"Tolerance is not just passive coexistence without violence."”
Hussain's distinction between passive and active tolerance suggests that a society that merely avoids violence is not necessarily a peaceful one. By framing tolerance as a proactive contribution to unity rather than a reluctant endurance of others, he posits that social stability requires an intentional cultural shift toward mutual understanding.
