Roots of Intolerance

As I maneuvered through the chaotic streets of Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling metropolis, I couldn’t help but notice the palpable intolerance towards traffic rules. It seemed as though red lights were merely suggestions, and lane markings were more like abstract art than guidelines for orderly driving. In the midst of honking horns and swerving vehicles, it became increasingly evident that the concept of patience was a rare commodity. Each intersection resembled a battleground, where drivers engaged in a relentless battle for supremacy, with little regard for their safety or that of others.

One particularly harrowing experience etched itself into my memory as I approached a congested roundabout. Chaos reigned supreme despite the marked lanes and traffic signs directing the flow of vehicles. Cars darted in and out of lanes, motorcycles weaved perilously between larger vehicles, and pedestrians took their chances amidst the tumult. The cacophony of horns blared incessantly, drowning out any semblance of order. In this maelstrom of impatience and recklessness, the notion of yielding or waiting one’s turn was a foreign concept. It was a stark reminder of the pervasive intolerance towards even the most basic traffic rules, where each driver seemed determined to assert their dominance at any cost.

This is one such example of tolerance (or lack thereof) – of traffic rules, of ideologies, of thoughts and feelings, beliefs, etc. In the fabric of a tolerant society, threads of diversity interweave to create a rich tapestry of beliefs, practices, and ideologies. Yet, beneath this ideal lies the stark reality that not all societies are equally tolerant. Intolerance, characterized by a lack of acceptance or respect for diverse beliefs and practices, can permeate social structures, leading to division, discrimination, and conflict. In examining what factors contribute to intolerance within a society, it becomes evident that a multitude of elements play a role. With a particular focus on Pakistan, where instances of intolerance have been prevalent, it is imperative to delve into the complexities that underlie this phenomenon.

At its core, intolerance often stems from a fear of the unknown or the unfamiliar. When individuals or groups feel threatened by ideas, beliefs, or practices that challenge their own, they may react defensively, resorting to intolerance to assert control or maintain power. In Pakistan, a nation marked by diverse cultural, religious, and ethnic landscapes, intolerance has manifested in various forms, driven by a confluence of historical, political, and socio-cultural factors.

One significant factor contributing to intolerance in Pakistan is the politicization of religion. Since its inception as a separate state for Muslims in 1947, religion has played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s identity and governance. However, the fusion of religion and politics has often resulted in the marginalization of minority groups and the imposition of rigid interpretations of Islam. This politicization has created an environment where dissenting voices are silenced, and religious minorities face persecution. For example, the blasphemy laws in Pakistan have been used to target individuals from religious minority groups, leading to acts of violence and discrimination.