Navigating Truth and Tolerance in University Settings

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The chapter explores the challenges faced in pursuing truth while navigating issues of tolerance and social justice on college campuses. It discusses the complex dynamic between intellectual pluralism and political realities, raising questions about differing viewpoints and the balance between safe environments and freedom of speech. Emphasizing the importance of creating tolerance for discomfort, the conversation delves into the role of safe spaces in fostering a sense of belonging for marginalized communities alongside the need for emotional and physical safety.

For many of the key issues today, it’s challenging to simply agree to disagree. Not only do we have serious differences in opinion and belief, but how we choose to act in light of them can have profound consequences.

How, then, should we live together? Is compromise a necessary component of community?

In a forum originally titled “Can Truth and Tolerance Coexist,” theologian Mirsolav Volf (Yale) and Dean of Students Vijay Pendakur (Cornell) delve into the complexities of a diverse, democratic society. Volf and Pendakur discuss how we can go beyond simply agreeing to disagree, what the role of physical and emotional safety is on college campuses, and what speaking the truth in love really means.

Their conversation was held at Cornell University in 2019. Thank you to the Forum planning team at Cornell university for making this event possible.

Watch the full Forum event here.
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