To the editor:

This is in response to letters I have seen in recent issues of the Call regarding tolerance and the homosexual marriage issue.

First of all, the idea of liberal tolerance is a myth.

It is a philosophical perspective with its own set of dogmas. It assumes, for instance, a relativistic view of moral and religious knowledge. This assumption has shaped the way many people think about issues such as homosexuality, abortion rights and religious truth claims, leading them to believe that a liberally tolerant posture is the correct one and that it ought to be reflected in our laws and customs.

But this posture is dogmatic, intolerant, and coercive, for it asserts that there is only one correct view on these issues, and if you don’t comply with it, you will face public ridicule, demagogic tactics, and perhaps legal action.

The letter chastising the woman who opposes homosexual marriage is a perfect example of what I’m talking about. In a so-called tolerant society, wouldn’t it be fair to consider her point of view just as valid as another?

Apparently not. The liberally tolerant are only tolerant of views that are the same as theirs, which totally contradicts the very definition of tolerance.

Those who brandish the word “intolerant” are unwilling to be challenged by other views or grapple with contrary opinions, or even to consider them. It’s easier to hurl an insult — “you intolerant bigot” or “get a life” — than to confront an idea and either refute it or be changed by it.

From my perspective, these self-proclaimed tolerant individuals are actually quite intolerant and stunningly misguided.

But the liberally tolerant do not see their dogmas as dogmas. For that reason, in the name of liberty and tolerance they will likely continue to use their social and political power to punish Christians and others who will not submit to their perverted doctrines. God help us.

John Gower

Crestwood