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With rhyme and reason: Recognizing reasons for disliked practices increases tolerance
Maykel Verkuyten1, Anniek Schlette1, Levi Adelman1
1Ercomer, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Social Psychology
|August 14, 2021
Summary
Understanding and considering diverse beliefs enhances societal tolerance. Recognizing arguments for practices one disapproves of increases acceptance of differing minority groups.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology
- Intergroup Relations
Background:
- Societal diversity necessitates tolerance for differing beliefs and practices.
- Tolerance is crucial for functional societies and involves considering reasons for disapproval.
- Existing research highlights the importance of cognitive processes in fostering intergroup understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether generating arguments for disapproved practices increases tolerance.
- To examine the impact of perceiving objectionable behaviors as reasonable on tolerance levels.
- To provide empirical evidence for the role of cognitive considerations in enhancing societal tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Three national sample studies (N=1,708) were conducted.
- Participants generated supporting arguments for minority practices they disapproved of (Studies 1-2).
- An experimental design assessed the effect of perceiving objectionable behavior as reasonable (Study 3).
Main Results:
- Generating arguments for disapproved minority practices led to increased tolerance.
- Perceiving objectionable behaviors as more reasonable significantly enhanced tolerance.
- Cognitive engagement with differing viewpoints positively correlated with increased tolerance.
Conclusions:
- Engaging in cognitive considerations for dissenting beliefs or practices is vital for enhancing tolerance.
- Recognizing the reasonableness of objectionable behaviors is a key factor in promoting societal acceptance.
- The findings underscore the importance of fostering understanding and reasoned consideration in diverse societies.
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