Analysis of Tolerance in Six European Mediterranean Countries

Abstract

Tolerance is one of the ideals of a democratic and pluralistic society. It is a way of behaving which allows others the freedom to express opinions with which we do not agree, and the right of others to live according to their principles different from ours. Recently Europe is faced with political challenges caused by mass immigration to European countries. In such circumstances, dilemmas arise regarding the possibility of maintaining the ideals of freedom and equality in European countries, which have become a melting pot of people of different nationalities, races, cultures, religions, and lifestyles. In this article, we used the results of the tolerance research in six European Mediterranean countries, conducted in 2017 as part of the European Values Study project. The objectives were to determine for each of the mentioned countries the level of tolerance or intolerance towards social groups in general, towards individual social groups, and differences between different socio-demographic groups of respondents concerning their level of tolerance or intolerance. The results show that Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia are the countries with the highest tolerance levels compared to the other countries. Also, members of the 'drug addicts' and the 'heavy drinkers' are considered the most problematic social groups in all six European Mediterranean countries. When it comes to gender, there is little difference in tolerance level. More educated and younger respondents have higher levels of tolerance.