Posted by:
O2
(
)
Date: January 01, 2011 06:29PM
Or so goes the theme of demanding tolerance for intolerant religious beliefs. This behavior is evident in a number of religions. In some instances it is more egregious than in Mormonism. However, my personal experience has been mostly with this illogical position within Mormonism. We are expected to be tolerant of a Mormons desire to exhibit intolerance in a number of ways. The most blatant in my opinion is the missionary program. The core of the missionary program is a belief that only Mormonism has the power to save and that all people should become active Mormons for each person's own good. Mormons tend to be baffled by the idea that believing they are the elect, chosen to bring the truth to the world is inherently an intolerant, condescending attitude.
In effect, those involved in the missionary efforts are pointing out Mormon's perception of flaws in others' belief systems. This is a 24 hour a day 7 day a week effort by over 50,000 people. Everyone is supposed to respect and tolerate the judgments and intrusions from these missionaries. Conversely, when anyone judges Mormon beliefs they are branded as anti-Mormon or apostate. So rather than the missionary effort being an intolerant, condescending anti-Catholic, anti-Baptist, ant-atheist, etc attitude, it is a religious right that must be respected. Others are not allowed the same privilege however. Only Mormons have this special right based on the special pleading of being god's chosen people.
There is also the shunning and social pressure that arises from not believing as the current doctrine dictates. Again this is a religious right for Mormons. Those who might exclude Mormons would be labeled as anti- and intolerant.
I would argue that being tolerant of intolerance is not a requirement. If a believer in Mormonism (or any other -ism for that matter) engages in such behavior, I will call them on their intolerance and rank hypocrisy.