Relativism and the Promise of Tolerance

• Published in: Journal of interdisciplinary studies Vol. 10; no. 1; pp. 67 - 84
• Main Author: Speck, Bruce W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Pasadena Institute for Interdisciplinary Research 1998
• Subjects: Christianity; Ecumenism; Prejudice
• ISSN: 0890-0132
• DOI: 10.5840/jis1998101/25

Many people claim that they are relativists and proponents of tolerance. Yet relativism cannot foster tolerance in part because it is untenable as a coherent philosophy. There are at least three types of relativists---novice, generous, and radical. All three types demonstrate that even renowned scholars who hold to relativism are not tolerant, since a tolerant relativist is a contradiction in terms. Relativism is also theologically incoherent, since neutrality is impossible conceming truth claims. However, tolerance is essential for the social order to prosper. The ecumenical statement, "Evangelicals and Catholics Together," represents a model of tolerance in interreligious circles with clear promise for the rest of society. Since tolerance is founded on Biblical truths, the Church is responsible for promoting tolerance without sacrificing the truth. Once the Church deals with its own intolerance in a spirit of humility, it can become a catalyst in promoting tolerance to those of varied beliefs.