The Paradox of Tolerance Karl Popper

Unlimited tolerance must lead to the disappearance of tolerance.

If we extend unlimited tolerance even to those who are intolerant, if we are not prepared to defend a tolerant society against the onslaught of the intolerant, then the tolerant will be destroyed, and tolerance with them. — In this formulation, I do not imply, for instance, that we should always suppress the utterance of intolerant philosophies; as long as we can counter them by rational argument and keep them in check by public opinion, suppression would certainly be unwise.

But we should claim the right to suppress them if necessary even by force; for it may easily turn out that they are not prepared to meet us on the level of rational argument, but begin by denouncing all argument; they may forbid their followers to listen to rational argument, because it is deceptive, and teach them to answer arguments by the use of their fists or pistols.

We should therefore claim, in the name of tolerance, the right not to tolerate the intolerant.

Credit: Karl Popper

Comment: Many people misinterpret Popper's argument on tolerance and free speech. Popper addressed the danger of those who reject rational debate and resort to violence, not the concept of unrestricted free speech. He argued that tolerance must not extend to those who refuse rational discussion and use force to silence others. Popper's quote emphasizes that suppressing intolerant ideologies is justified when they threaten rational discourse and public safety. His paradox warns against those who shut down debate and free speech, which is often misrepresented. Ironically, some misuse Popper's paradox to support behaviors he cautioned against.

Source: The Open Society and Its Enemies

Quotations: Karl Popper

Tags: freedom of speech (18) | Karl Popper (7) | paradox of tolerance (2) | tolerance (8)

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