Question

Difficulty: MediumTolerance of Differing Opinions

A local public library adds a new book to its collection that promotes a political viewpoint that many people in the neighborhood find very unpopular and offensive. According to the Australian value of mutual respect and tolerance, how should community members who disagree with the book's message respond?

  1. A
    Demand that the library staff remove the book immediately to protect the community from hearing unpopular ideas.
  2. Accept that everyone has the right to express their own opinions and read different materials, even if those opinions are unpopular.Answer
  3. C
    Organize a group to shout down or use intimidation against anyone who tries to discuss the book in public.

Answer

Community members should accept that everyone has the right to express their own opinions and read different materials, even if those opinions are unpopular.
The correct answer is correct because it aligns with the Australian value of tolerance, which requires people to respect the right of others to hold and express different or unpopular opinions. Peaceful disagreement and the freedom to share ideas are fundamental to maintaining a stable and peaceful society in Australia.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core value being tested.
The scenario describes a conflict of opinions, which relates to 'Mutual Respect and Tolerance'.
Australian values emphasize that people are free to follow their own beliefs and express their views.
2
Determine the expected behavior for disagreement.
Disagreements in Australia should be handled through peaceful discussion and tolerance.
Silencing others or using intimidation is against the democratic principle of freedom of expression.
3
Select the response that aligns with tolerance of differing opinions.
Respecting the right of the library to hold the book and for others to read it, despite personal disagreement.
Tolerance means allowing others to hold and share views even when you find them disagreeable.

Key Concept

Mutual Respect and Tolerance of Differing Opinions

Hints

1
Consider how Australian society handles people who have views that are different from the majority.
2
Australian values emphasize 'mutual respect and tolerance'. Does this value support silencing an opinion or allowing it to be heard?
3
Think about whether freedom of speech applies even to opinions that most people find offensive.

Practice More

Review the section on 'Freedom of Speech' to see how it connects to 'Tolerance of Differing Opinions' in a democratic society.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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