by Nizar Smida, Bassem Jemal
ABSTRACT
This research paper undertakes the essential task of investigating the origins and evolution of intolerance, delving into its historical roots and their enduring influence on contemporary human consciousness. We argue that the human being is inherently a tolerant creature, but that external circumstances have transformed them into one incapable of tolerating others. In our view, religious fanaticism, the claim to exclusive ownership of truth, salvation doctrines, and the pursuit of happiness—alongside the political agenda aimed at consolidating power, expanding authority, and extending global influence—represent, in our estimation, a pivotal shift from coexistence, familiarity, and tolerance to violence, exclusion, and alienation. Our study is framed by a clearly defined research question:
- How does examining forms of religious fanaticism and political conflict lead us to conclude that these are the primary drivers of intolerance? To address this question, we have relied on historical, inductive, and comparative methodologies, which have led us to the following conclusions:
- Intolerance is a symptom of alienation and the loss of original human identity.
- Ignorance of the true objectives and unifying spirit of religion is a central cause of violence and intolerance.
- The dominance of self-interest and utilitarian goals in political agendas has led to the erosion of core values—chief among them, the value of tolerance.
