Topic– Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.
7) The value of tolerance is simply the opposite of intolerance. Do you agree? Comment. (250 words)
Directive word
Comment- here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to form an opinion as to whether the value of tolerance is simply the opposite of intolerance, or not. We have to form our opinion based on a proper discussion and by presenting proper arguments in our support.
Structure of the answer
Introduction– Write a few introductory lines about tolerance. E.g The term “toleration”—from the Latin tolerare: to put up with, countenance or suffer—generally refers to the conditional acceptance of or non-interference with beliefs, actions or practices that one considers to be wrong etc.
Body-
Discuss why tolerance is not simply the opposite of tolerance. E.g For some people, the value of tolerance is simply the opposite of intolerance. But to think of tolerance in simple binary terms limits our understanding of important aspects of the concept; Toleration is always a response to something that is disapproved of – but not to such a degree as to justify prohibition. Tolerance is, by definition, a mark of disapproval; discuss tolerance- prohibition- acceptance; Mention that Ethics calls upon people to examine their lives – including the quality of their reasons when forming judgements. An ethical life is one that goes beyond unthinking custom and practice. This is why judgements about what is to be accepted, tolerated or prohibited need to be made free from the distorting effects of prejudice. Beliefs, customs and institutions should be evaluated for what they actually are – and not on the basis of assumptions about people or the world etc.
Conclusion– based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.
