On Children and the "Other" (was:Re: On the perfection of moral virtues)

[montavilla47]

No: HPFGUIDX 169541

Alla:
> So, suppose Malfoy decides that being with DE and Lordie Voldy suits 
> his fancy better. Does that mean that Trio should applaud him and 
> accept his choice? I mean, applaud probably is the wrong word, but 
> you know what I mean.
> 
> Are they still obligated to think that he is a wonderful person to be 
> considered you know, tolerant?

Montavilla47:
No, actually.  The definition of tolerance is not thinking that people are 
wonderful if they aren't.  The essence of tolerance is treating with respect 
people you *don't* think are wonderful.  

It's the Golden Rule thingy.  "Do unto others as you would have them do 
unto you."

In other words, if you would prefer that the Death Eaters not laugh at you 
when the Dark Lord is Crucio'ing you, you give their children enough respect 
not to laugh at them when they are being bounced up and down on stone 
floors.

(Please note:  I'm am *not* saying Harry deserved anything that happened to 
him in the graveyard because he enjoyed the ferret-bouncing.  He didn't 
deserve it for any reason.  None at all.)

A better example:  Snape is frustrated because Harry doesn't give him respect.  
But Harry doesn't give Snape respect because Snape started their relationship by 
humiliating him.  If Snape had showed an even basic respect for Harry, Harry 
would have returned basic respect in return.  Whether they hated each other or 
not would be irrelevant.

Montavilla47