The Multi-Ideology Society
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
| Margaret Holt
In any society we desire respect and tolerance between all people and all ideologies and this respect and tolerance is something that should be nurtured not only from what may be a perceived majority to minority groups but in reverse and between all groups.
The question of whether “God created the heavens and the earth” should be taught as a belief system in schools is a case in point. Should not allowing this belief to be taught in schools alongside science even be considered, particularly in Christian schools and other schools of faith? Is this not imposing one ideology over another and violating the rights of people to choose what they believe?
As a society becomes more multi-cultural and more varied in its ideologies it brings unique challenges. It is often easier to have a ‘cohesive whole’ where everyone is perceived to hold to the same ideology. The danger of this is, of course, not everyone in a society ever does believe the same thing and this leads to misunderstanding and persecution of anyone outside the dominant group.
As we welcome more people of varying ideologies to Australia we have unique opportunities and challenges to build an open society that has to be more tolerant because it is so varied. The perceived dominant group may feel threatened and minority groups may come dealing with issues of persecution and feeling constantly that people are against them. We have to allay the fears of all groups. There will always be ‘teething problems’ but if we persevere the result will be worth it!
The Christian community has a wonderful opportunity to lead the way in not only showing respect and tolerance but also the most important thing – the love of God for all people.
Living in a multi-ideology society is upholding the rights of everyone to choose what they will believe and in whom they will believe without harassment and ridicule from other groups or people. Surely this is what we should be upholding and working towards when we speak of respect and tolerance between all people in a society?
Margaret Holt, a nurse and midwife, worked in the Middle East for 5 years, initially with Bedouin then with Iraqi refugees. She still returns to the region for short-term stints and also works with refugees here in Australia and with Barnabas Fund in aiding suffering Christians around the world.