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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lessing warns that believing our current level of tolerance is sufficient is the most dangerous form of self-deception.
In plain terms
Thinking we are already tolerant enough is the worst kind of false belief.
What can you take from it?
Complacency about tolerance hinders progress.

Where it applies

  • social justice discussions
  • personal development

Putting it to work

  • evaluating own biases
  • pushing for inclusivity

Questions to consider

  • Are we tolerant enough?
  • How do we measure tolerance?

Another view

It assumes tolerance is a fixed state rather than an ongoing practice.

More from Doris Lessing

  1. Pearls mean tears.

    Permalink to quote #56
  2. Trust no friend without faults, and love a maiden, but no angel.

    Permalink to quote #58
  3. Man - who is he? Too bad, to be the work of God: Too good for the work of chance!

    Permalink to quote #55

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