In this engaging and comprehensive introduction to the topic of
toleration, Andrew Jason Cohen seeks to answer fundamental questions,
such as: What is toleration? What should be tolerated? Why is toleration
important?
Beginning with some key insights into what we mean by toleration, Cohen
goes on to investigate what should be tolerated and why. We should not
be free to do everythingÑmurder, rape, and theft, for clear examples,
should not be tolerated. But should we be free to take drugs, hire a
prostitute, or kill ourselves? Should our governments outlaw such
activities or tolerate them? Should they tolerate "outsourcing" of jobs
or importing of goods or put embargos on other countries? Cohen examines
these difficult questions, among others, and argues that we should look
to principles of toleration to guide our answers. These principles tell
us when limiting freedom is acceptableÑthat is, they indicate the proper
limits of toleration. Cohen deftly explains the main principles on offer
and indicates why one of these stands out from the rest.
This wide-ranging new book on an important topic will be essential
reading for students taking courses in philosophy, political science and
religious studies.