Tolerate alternative views

WE have really moved, as a society into what is described as a “tolerance” based society.

A number of significant social changes currently manifest themselves in our society. Same sex marriage is sought with many claiming that it is a matter of equality, while opponents are sidelined as homophobes.

Australia is being urged to allow elements of Islamic sharia law into its legal system by lecturers at Sydney University School of Law. Muslims and other minorities will feel more accepted if we demonstrate this level of tolerance, they argue. Opponents of any tampering with a legal system, rooted in English law, are labelled Islamophobes or racists.

We accept refugees from conflict zones to further demonstrate our tolerance. Opponents of further immigration are just bigots. It seems that Australia really is a tolerant society. We tolerate many things, many things that is, except an alternative point of view.

Whatever happened to the intellectual, and the fifth element’s pursuit of the liberal society championed by Voltaire and the other greats of the Enlightened age? Where are the intelligentsia reminding people of that most famous of Voltaire’s quotes?

“I do not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

Our wonderful “lucky country” is fast becoming a nation intimidated into silence on important issues facing the country, when we seek to marginalise people because they have a varied point of view.

Discussion on all issues facing society must be able to be expressed, albeit with passion, without the fall back position of name calling, if we are to remain cohesive and inclusive. BRIAN DALEY, Cranbrook.